Laurie Ann Cohen

Laurie Ann Cohen (neé Brownstein) took her final bow surrounded by her family on November 4, 2024, in Estero, Florida, after a lifetime performance that earned her a standing ovation. At 76, Laurie closed the curtains in a world that was a stage she embraced with the vigor and warmth of a spotlight.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 30, 1948, to Estelle and Robert Brownstein, Laurie turned every page of her calendar with gusto. Laurie's educational journey began at Von Stueben High School and continued at Boston University. A devout lover of Broadway, she majored in the art of life, minoring in laughter and love.

On February 28, 1970, she married the love of her life, Leonard Cohen, and together they created a beautiful family, welcoming three daughters—Marcy Robyn, Jorie Lynn, and Alison Beth—who were the pride and joy of her life.

Her acclaimed off-Broadway career began as an entertainer for children's parties, using her love of singing to create magical moments. She then took her creativity a step further by opening her own business, Kreative Parties, where her entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly for many years as both a party planner and store owner. Laurie also worked at Len’s company, Veeco Salon Furnishings, for many years, using her communication and technology skills to improve their website and marketing campaigns.

When not in rehearsal or on the stage, Laurie loved playing mahjong and canasta with her friends and was willing to endure golfing just to spend time with Len. Her love of technology showed that she was truly ahead of her time; she relished sharing that knowledge, even teaching a class she developed to help grandparents learn to use smartphones to stay connected with their grandchildren. She was known for her strong character, kindness, and class, always devoted to her family and friends. Laurie was not only a remarkable mother and grandmother, but also an amazing friend who touched many lives.

Laurie leaves behind a loving family including husband Leonard Cohen; daughters Marcy Turner (Jason), Jorie Zamost (Danny), and Ali Kimelman (Andrew); grandchildren Sam, Alexa, Carly, Chad, Elliana, Reese, and Brady; and sister, Dale Dresdner.

The final curtain call is handled by Weinstein & Piser Funeral Home, 111 Skokie Blvd, Wilmette, IL, on Thursday, November 7 at 11:00 am. For those who knew her, Laurie's encore will come in the form of stories shared and hearts filled later that day from 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm at Ravinia Green Country Club, 1200 Saunders Rd, Riverwoods, IL 60015. Curtain down, applause up—for Laurie Cohen, every day was a celebration.

In lieu of flowers, Laurie’s family kindly requests that donations be made in her honor to the Sarcoma Foundation of America, https://curesarcoma.org/