Richard Anthony Cohen, 75, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2020. He was at home surrounded by his families love and appreciation for his life. Dick grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin. His parents Clarence and Mary Cohen had five children. His parents were devoted Catholics and Dick embraced their strong Catholic faith. It would continue to be the foundation he built his life around.
He met his wife and best friend of 52 years, Mary Ann, at St. Norbert College in De Pere Wisconsin. They dated for 4 years. After he graduated and got married, Dick entered the army. They were stationed in Germany for 2 years. Dick then had one tour in Vietnam. He was a Captain and received the Bronze Star medal.
After the army, he returned to Green Bay where they started a family together. Dick was so proud of his 2 daughters Kari and Shannon. As life unfolded, Kari married Brian Burrowes and they have an 11 year old son named Cruz. Family continued to be the focus of his life eventually bringing them to the Lakeway, TX to be together.
In 1981 Dick had the opportunity to buy a McDonald's franchise in Canada. Dick and Mary Ann were active owners for 22 years building great relationships and restaurants in the town of Markham outside of Toronto, Canada. Dick loved the business in large part because of his joy for caring about his staff and inspiring them to enjoy their work.
He was also passionate about giving back to the community. He was on the local Hospital board and served as the president for many years.
Outside of his faith, family and work, Dick loved all sports! His favorites were golf and the Green Bay Packers. The last 9 holes he played was with his son-in-law Brian and his grandson Cruz. His other passion was having a home in Sarasota, Florida for 25 years. Beach life renewed his spirit and brought him and Mary Ann great joy and peace.
Dick will be remembered for his love of people and helping to make their day a joy filled one. He brought to others humor, kindness, acceptance, presence and a big warm hug. His last years in Lakeway were very happy. He loved his life with his family and friends within the community. He participated along with Mary Ann in a local production group called Sing Along, where he was always enthusiastic about putting on a great show. He also delivered meals to those in need through Meals on Wheels for over 10 years. His caring nature brought tremendous joy to those he served.
And finally, Emmaus Catholic Church filled his soul with God's love. He read the liturgy there for 12 years because he felt honored to share God's sacred word. We remember Dick as living life from gratitude, a quiet and deep faith and a joyful heart that he shared with those around him.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, Texas 77030.
