Paul H. Cohen

1933 - 2023

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Paul Cohen. After bravely battling a brain tumor at the age of 90, Paul passed peacefully and was surrounded by his loving family. Paul was born on January 7, 1933, in Springfield, MA. He was a proud graduate of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Following his education, Paul served two years in the army from 1954 to 1956, receiving an honorable discharge. After his military service, he joined the family business, International Motor Cars, a group of auto dealerships in the Springfield, MA area.

In 1962, fate brought Paul together with Gene Rosenberg, who would become his lifelong friend and partner. For over 60 years, they formed an unbreakable bond while working together in the furniture promotions industry. Their partnership lasted until Gene's passing in 2022. Words cannot capture the depth of the connection shared between Gene and Paul. They were more than best friends; they were brothers. As Paul often said, "I would not be the man I am today without Gene Rosenberg." With Gene's departure, a part of Paul's spirit departed as well.

In 1978, Paul met the love of his life, Harriet. They married and shared many joyous years together until her passing in 2008. Paul and Harriet had a unique and remarkable relationship, embodying the essence of true love. They understood each other deeply and found happiness in traveling, entertaining at home, dining with loved ones, and more. As long as they were together, everything else seemed insignificant. Paul carried the weight of Harriet's loss in his heart until his final days. The family takes solace in knowing that they are now reunited.

Paul was a brilliant man, blessed with a vast vocabulary, an impeccable memory, and an extraordinary talent for storytelling. He possessed the remarkable ability to strike up conversations with anyone at any time, effortlessly establishing a connection regardless of the person's background. His taste and style were unmatched, as he always dressed impeccably. Music was his passion, and he delighted in attending concerts, from world-renowned artists to local performers, until the final months of his life. Playing cards was a cherished pastime, and he would spend countless hours, at least three times a week, with his gin buddies, never missing a game. His love for food was unparalleled, and he took great pleasure in savoring exceptional meals whether at home, in the company of friends, or dining at his favorite restaurants. His happiest moments were spent at home, watching a game with his family while preparing his favorite meals.

Paul was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Celia, and his sister, Eleanor. He is survived by his daughter, Kathy, her husband Chris, and his granddaughters, Jordan and Leah. He is also survived by his nephews, Steven Berg and his wife Gail, Bob Berg and his wife Cathy, along with their three children, Rachel, Andrew, and Daniel. Additionally, he leaves behind his beloved goddaughter, Pia Rosenberg Toro, her husband Mickey, and their daughters Maddie, Mackenzie, and Mya. Paul's close and caring friend, Monine Fernandez, who worked with the family for over twenty years, was also an important presence in his life.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to all the staff at Hartford Hospital, particularly Dr. Elias, as well as Mass General, Baystate Medical Center, and Dr. Bedford, who provided excellent care throughout the years, including Paul's initial battle with cancer.

The funeral service will take place on Sunday, May 21st at 11:00 am at Temple Beth El, located at 979 Dickinson St., Springfield, MA with burial in Beth El Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow the burial at the Temple.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Paul's honor to the following organizations:

Mass General: https://tinyurl.com/5n8tczhc

Hartford Hospital: https://tinyurl.com/4e9jyvma

Baystate Medical Center: https://www.baystatehealth.org/giving

Jewish Geriatric Services of Western Massachusetts: https://jgslifecare.org/ways-to-give/

If you would like acknowledgement to your gift, each website should allow you to enter the information.

You can ask that the notification be sent to:

Mr. Chris Towler & Mrs. Kathy Coons

15 Cobtail Way

Simsbury, CT 06070

kcinthekitchen@comcast.net