Milton Cohen

Milton Cohen, a man whose life was a testament to adventure, love, and intellectual pursuit, passed away on February 9, 2024.
Born in the vibrant streets of New York City in 1927, Milton's journey was one marked by curiosity and passion. As a young boy, he found solace in walking the bustling waterfront of the lower east side of Manhattan, a habit that reflected his lifelong affinity for exploration. His spirit of adventure led him to serve valiantly in the navy during World War II, an experience that undoubtedly shaped his worldview.
After the war, Milton found himself drawn to the world of cigars, eventually making his mark in the industry by naming the beloved Romeo Y Julieta cigar line, Fiesta. However, his true joy came when he met Florence, the love of his life, in a guitar class. Theirs was a partnership built on mutual support and encouragement.
Under Florence's guidance, Milton pursued higher education, earning his Ph.D. in anthropology from NYU. Together, they embarked on a transformative journey, spending a year living with a local tribe in Costa Rica, an experience that enriched their lives immeasurably.
Their shared passion for education led them to teach at Queenborough Community College, where they touched the lives of countless students. They went on to purchase a fixer-upper in West Goshen, CT, where they also lovingly built a second home nestled in the quiet serenity of the woods.
Their adventures didn't stop there. From New York to West Goshen and eventually settling in North Palm Beach overlooking the ocean and marina, Milton and Florence savored every moment together. They enjoyed cooking, entertaining, attending the opera, and indulging in a 5 p.m. martini.
Milton's life was a symphony of love, family, and friendship. He found joy in the simple pleasures of reading, singing, tending to his vegetable garden, and exploring every corner of the world with Florence by his side. Their Christmases spent on the sandy beaches of Aruba were a testament to their boundless zest for life.
In Milton's hands, life was a royal flush-a hand of cards brimming with fulfillment and contentment. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him, a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.