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Spencer John Cosmos

1938 - 2020

Spencer John Cosmos obituary, 1938-2020, Silver Spring, DC

FUNERAL HOME

Francis J. Collins Funeral Home, Inc. - Silver Spring

500 University Blvd. West

Silver Spring, Maryland

Spencer Cosmos Obituary


Spencer John Cosmos  
Born on February 19, 1938, to Alex and Mary Louise Cosmos in Chicago. IL., Spencer was the oldest of six siblings, and is survived by sisters Jan and Mary Lou (Jason), and brother Kevin. He was preceded in death by sister Karen and brother Christopher. On December 19, 2019, he died of natural causes at Holy Cross Hospital with family by his side. Husband of Ursula Poetzchke; father of Joanne, Emily (Arsen), Julia; stepfather of Erik (Porsha), Nicky (Ben); stepfather of Stephen and Marci; grandfather of Jamie, Martina, Hanna, Madelyn, Aspen and Lincoln. Dr. Cosmos was a professor of English at Catholic University of America and Montgomery College. Spence is remembered for his warm personality, love of teaching and a good game of softball, and a camera in his hand. A Celebration of Life will be held at Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Boulevard West, Silver Spring, MD, 20901, on Saturday, February 22, 2020, from 12 to 2 p.m. To contribute to a charitable fund, please contact Joanne Finn ([email protected]">[email protected]">[email protected]">[email protected]) and Emily Cosmos ([email protected]">[email protected]">[email protected]">[email protected]).

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Jan. 23, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Spencer Cosmos

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6 Entries

Lawrence Boesch

October 3, 2024

I had floundered through the last 2 years of college and was taking a shortened elective course on linguistics from Dr Cosmos when I rediscovered why I pursued higher education after all. He taught me that it´s alright to analyze in your own individual way, rather than just following the rote methods of others, to spew foregone conclusions instead of your own theories. Without this influence I wouldn´t have gone on to earn an MA and a JD. It also got me through 33 years of practicing law and 3 years of fundraising for public interest groups. He had a profound influence on my life.

Greg O'Loughlin

February 15, 2024

I was reminiscing about my time at Catholic University and sharing stories about Prof. Cosmos. He was the type of scholar and teacher that you dream of when you think about what college will be like - passionate about learning, supportive of growth, eager to share. I am sad to learn that he has passed and very grateful for the short time I got to learn with him.

Bob Albiol

October 13, 2023

I worked with Spencer for many years and thought very highly of this kind and brilliant teacher. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

John and Terry Wilson

February 17, 2020

SpenceYour bright smile and loving heart will always be remembered by your friends and neighbors.

Robert Derkazarian (Derk)

February 5, 2020

My very best to the Cosmos Family, a great guy. Spencer had a magnetic personality, you could not dislike him. I've known Spencer only a few years, he made a very memorable impression on me which will not be forgotten. I will miss our breakfast discussions at Panera's. Rest in peace friend.

N. S.

January 23, 2020

My deepest sympathy to the family of Spencer John Cosmos. May you be comforted in knowing that our Heavenly Father cares for you. He will give you strength and courage to cope with your grief.
Psalm 94:17-19

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Memorial Events
for Spencer Cosmos

Feb

22

Celebration of Life

12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Collins Funeral Home

500 University Boulevard West, Silver Spring, MD 20901

Funeral services provided by:

Francis J. Collins Funeral Home, Inc. - Silver Spring

500 University Blvd. West, Silver Spring, MD 20901

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