Freda Cohen

Freda 'Fritzi' Cohen
PORTLAND -- Freda 'Fritzi' Cohen, of Portland, died Tuesday morning, Aug. 7, 2012, at her residence as a
result of declining health.
She was born in New York City the only daughter of Joseph and Rose Jassem where she was raised in Brooklyn attending schools there graduating from Brooklyn College.
Fritzi was employed for a tie company in New York City for several years while attending drama school.
She met the love of her life, Robert 'Bob' Cohen at the USO in New York during World War II. They married and then moved to Maine in 1946. Fritzi immediately became involved in local theatrical organizations Portland Players and the Jewish Community Center.
Fritzi formerly worked for Channel 6 (NBC Affiliate) where she wrote copy, and while there she became the first in New England on air drama critic. She reviewed local and professional theatrical productions.
She performed for several seasons at the Kennebunkport Play House. Fritzi was most noted for her role in the movie 'JAWS' and also did an episode of 'Route 66,' as well as other movies and commercials. She also had a leading role in the Boston production of 'Lenny.'
She was known for her honesty, integrity and professionalism. She enjoyed bowling, volunteering at the Portland Museum of Art, was an accomplished gardener, and a creative painter of pet portraits.
She was predeceased by her loving husband in 1994. She leaves a daughter, Jill S. Cohen of Needham, and her partner Jerrold Olanoff; her loving cat Lily Rose; and her best friend Marilyn Goodreau. She is also survived by close relatives in Buffalo, N.Y., and Dallas, Texas.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend funeral services at Temple Beth El, 400 Deering Ave., Portland, on Thursday, Aug. 9, 2012, at 1 p.m., with Rabbi Carolyn Braun officiating. Interment will follow in Temple Beth El Memorial Park, Portland. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St., Portland.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to:
Maine State Society for the
Protection of Animals
Care of Marilyn Goodreau
P.O. Box 10, 279 River Rd.
South Windham, Maine 04082
Freda 'Fritzi' Cohen
Jones, Rich & Hutchins
Funeral Home & Cremation Service
775-3763