Arnold H. Cohen Memorial

Twere many years ago that we met Arnold and Barbara at a charity event over a glass or two of wine. Although we shared the same address forever, we hadn’t connected until that evening at the silent auction. We went on  to share many an evening over fine food, good wine and plenty of laughter. We were immediately drawn to Arnold who had a wonderful sense of humor, a dry wit and the ability to keep the merriment going. In fact, we always said that when we wanted to have a good laugh, we would track down the Cohens for another evening of sit down comedy.

Arnold did not often sit down, he was always on the move. In fact, after leaving a restaurant, Arnold would start a brisk walk home while the rest of us were out in the streets hailing a cab. We remember at least one time when he actually got home before we had arrived.

The thing we most admired was Arnold’s drive to participate fully in life. He and Barbara were forever “on the road again,” as witnessed by the wonderful collection of photos. We are blessed to have known Arnold for his kindness, his solid sense  of ethics, and his love of family and friends.

Arnold, the memory of you will always be in our hearts.

Love,

Norman and Katherine

Arnold was a blessing in this world – in my world.

Thinking about stories of things I remember.

There are many.. but one that stands out first right now, is a time you and Arnold, and Jeff and I went to a gospel music concert. I remember it was an evening concert in some church..

It was lively and people were standing and enthusiastically clapping…  and Arnold was right in there!! He was up on his feet and clapping with the music. What stands out for me is the unbridled joy he had in listening, and singing along at times to folk and yes- gospel- music.

His joy was contagious.

He blessed my life and I will miss in in more ways than words can say..

My love is with you and Jonathan…and your family 

Always

Ginny 

Dear Barbara,

Since hearing the news about Arnold, I’ve had a flood of memories of the many many times we were together—everywhere from Sea Ranch to South Salem to NYC. One episode stands out. In the Spring of 2002, Sarah and I embarked on a college tour that included Brown, Wellesley, Amherst, Hampshire, Mt. Holyoke, Williams, Vassar, Barnard, Columbia, and Haverford. You and Arnold hosted us during our time in the City in your usual warm and generous way.

You’ll remember that after our tour of Barnard, I lost Sarah for 3 hours on the NY Subway. There was a police APB search. They found her near Columbus Circle, and to our great relief, we were reunited. But then our cab driver cut off a horse and carriage resulting in a major brouhaha and the wildest ride ever back to your apartment. Later that evening, I lost Sarah again when she became ill and went to the restroom just as 3,000 people exited the theater. Finally, we arrived back at your place, which always was but that night truly became our sanctuary in New York. You and Arnold soothed my nerves and put Sarah to sleep for the night. I, somewhat crazed, thought we should check in to a hospital.

So Arnold, in his calm, knowing way, knew how to assess a situation, and how to confer that caring calmness to all who knew him. Barbara, I am grateful to you and Arnold both for our long standing and meaningful connection.

Love,

Bob

I am 75 years of age.  I have known Arnold Cohen since I can remember.  I was born knowing cousin Arnold.  Arnold was a 2^nd cousin of my mother, Irene Gavendo.  His Dad, Uncle Heime, was my Mom’s 1^st cousin on the Singer female side of the family .  So, my fondest memories as a young boy was to be a part of the “family circle” on that Singer side of the family.  Dinners.  Passover.  Hannukah celebrations.  My fondest memories since they were of my FAMILY.  Most of those people are now gone.  My Mom.  My Dad.  My Aunt Ray. My Uncle Willie Gavenda. Arnold’s parents, his brother, Harris.  Arnolds Aunts and Uncles.  All Gone. Arnold and his sister, Gloria, in my world were the links to that past.  My Golden Age!

Growing up to my adulthood, I lost Arnold.  We had moved from NY to North Carolina and ultimately to SAN FRANCISCO.  Arnold still lived in NYC so there was little to no contact until I was well into adulthood, a now physician and father of two boys. It was Arnold who reached out to my mother Irene, my two sisters and my brothers.  His reaching out had to do with the fact that he was to marry the love of his life, Barbara.  In fact, if my memory is true, Arnold and Barbara gave me the honor of signing his Jewish marriage certificate or Ketubah.

From that time on Arnold has been a constant in my life and the life of my family.

Arnold in my mind still remained the bridge to my “Golden Age.”  Arnold, the bridge to my family memories. Arnold, I will miss you terribly.  I will miss your gentle smile.  I will miss your hearty laugh.  I will miss your hugs. I will miss your constant in my life.

Cousin Elliot Krames