Lester Cohen

Bangor - Lester M. Cohen, born on September 12, 1924 in Biddeford, Maine to Celia and Julius Cohen, the youngest of 7 children, died at his home on February 4, 2015. Lester graduated from Biddeford High School and interrupted his studies at the University of Maine to serve in World War II. He fought on the D-Day landing at Normandy and the battle of St. Lo breakthrough. He was the 8th U.S. soldier to enter Paris during its liberation, fought in the Battle of the Bulge and the crossing of the Rhine at Remagan. After the war he returned to the University of Maine and graduated in 1949. Following a few years in the retail business, he obtained advanced education and became a specialist in estate planning, annuities, and life insurance. He was a warm and trusting man in his personal and professional life. It was important for him to act ethically everyday in the best interest of his clients. Lester was a present member of Beth Abraham Synagogue and a past member of Beth Israel Synagogue. He was a board member of the United Cerebral Palsy Center, a Mason, and active in the Kiwanis where he volunteered in their soup kitchen for 40 years. As a member of B’nai Brith he volunteered at St. Joseph’s Hospital on Christmas. He was an active board member of Bangor’s Shaw House. He lived his life with a focus on community service and helping others. He was predeceased by his parents, his 3 brothers, and his 3 sisters. He is survived by his loving and beloved wife, Honey, of 56 years, his daughter Cynthia, son in-law Neal Berger, his son Scott and daughter-in-law Andrea Balazs, and 2 grandchildren, Lucas and Sofia Cohen. He is also survived by several caring nieces and nephews who showed him a great deal of love and respect during his life. He terribly regretted being unable to see his grandchildren once losing his eyesight. Otherwise, he was uncomplaining and generously sharing of his optimism. Memorial services will be held on Friday, February 6, 2015 at 11am, at the Jewish Funeral Chapel, 118 Center Street, Bangor, ME. Reception following interment will be held at Beth Abraham Synagogue, Bangor. All are invited. Donations in Lester’s memory may be made to Beth Abraham Synagogue, 145 York Street, Bangor, ME 04401, or to Beth Israel Synagogue, 144 York Street, Bangor, ME