Dr. Michael F. Cohen's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Dr. Michael F. Cohen
The world dimmed on August 31, 2023, as we said farewell to Dr. Michael F. Cohen, a man whose life journey was nothing short of extraordinary. Michael, born on October 29, 1941, left behind an indelible legacy marked by compassion, achievement, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge.
Born to Joseph and Lee Cohen in in the vibrant borough Brooklyn, New York, Michael's journey through life was a testament to the power of love, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great- grandfather, his family held a special place in his heart, and their well-being was his unwavering priority.
Michael's accomplishments spoke to his brilliance. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin at Madison earning his Ph.D. in Psychology and obtained his license at the young age of 27. Throughout his career, he selflessly helped countless individuals, earning a reputation as a consummate professional.
Later, Michael relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area, where he opened a free clinic in the Haight Ashbury District. He went on to found the esteemed Professional School of Psychology. As a professor, he had an ability to make every subject deeply engaging for his students. Remarkably, during this period, he also operated a farm, raising sheep, an astounding feat for someone who hailed from Brooklyn.
After selling his school, Michael, went to Oaxaca, Mexico and lived there for about two years. Upon returning to the San Francisco/Oakland Bay Area, he then ventured into the world of garment dyeing, serving numerous designers, including the iconic Levi's brand. He also dedicated himself to assisting individuals with developmental and pediatric disabilities for the California State Department for Developmental Disabilities, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to social services. Later, he also served as a clinical psychologist for the California State Department of Corrections, where even the toughest criminals found solace in his presence.
Michael's love story with Irene culminated in 1990, when they married aboard the Pacific Spirit with the Golden Gate Bridge as their backdrop. In 1999, they made the bold decision to relocate to Florida, where Michael opened a private practice specializing in child custody evaluations. Often Michael was called upon to testify. His court testimonies were highly regarded, earning admiration from judges and attorneys alike.
An adventurer at heart, Michael's wanderlust was ignited in 1977 when he embarked on a 51-week journey from San Francisco to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in a customized Volkswagen Van, accompanied by his best friend, Bill. Their travels took them through the challenging terrain of the Andes, consequently forcing them to rebuild the engine multiple times. Fluent in English, Spanish, French, and even some German, Michael effortlessly connected with locals across 30-plus countries including a 9-month backpack trip through Asia. He documented his adventures through skilled photography, capturing aweinspiring moments that told a story.
Michael's culinary talents matched his hunger for exploration. A gourmet chef with an eye for detail, he created dishes ranging from Indian cuisine to chocolate lasagna, always pursuing precision and perfection. His palate was as diverse as the countries he explored, reflecting his boundless curiosity. Michael’s passions extended to Giants Baseball, politics, art, poetry, and the music of Bob Dylan, which he unwaveringly played whenever given the chance.
Michael is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Irene Cohen, with whom he shared a deep and enduring love. He leaves behind his cherished children, Isa Cohen, Alexandra Cohen, Theodore Cohen, Lisa Skillman, and Gretchen Skillman; adoring grandchildren, Emily Kuhn and Tyler Skillman; and his great grandson, Hank Kuhn, Jr. He is also survived by his sister, Josie Childers, and nieces and nephews, Joe, Mary, Russ, Doug, Vsand, Derek, Jason, and Koren. Lastly, he leaves behind his precious black poodle rescue, Zoe.
He is tragically predeceased by his grandson, Robert Miller, his sisters Roxane Murph and Isa Thomas, and his nephew, Chip.
So many hearts are hurting at Michael’s passing…most indelibly his widow, Irene. He is at peace. Beloved. Forever in our hearts.
Dr. Michael F. Cohen’s memory will forever inspire us to embrace life's adventures, to seek knowledge, and to approach each day with the same compassion and love that he showered upon all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though he has bid farewell to this world, his spirit lives on in the hearts and minds of all who were touched by his presence.
“May your hands always be busy
May your feet always be swift
May you have a strong foundation
When the winds of changes shift
May your heart always be joyful
May your song always be sung
And may you stay forever young”
- Bob Dylan
What’s your fondest memory of Michael?
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Share a story where Michael's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michael you’ll never forget.
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