Alan J. Cohen

Alan J. Cohen, 77 of Cheshire, beloved husband of Shawn (Jahnke) and loving father to Matthew, passed away following a brief illness on Tuesday August 12, 2025.  A devoted husband, father, and USMC veteran he leaves behind a legacy of service, passion, creativity and love of family.

Born on July 5, 1948, he was one of four children to the late Isador and Shirley (Balk) Cohen.  Raised and educated in Waterbury, Alan graduated from New Britain High School before answering the call to serve his country. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and proudly served during the Vietnam War as a helicopter mechanic and photographer. It was during this time that he fulfilled his passion for photography, capturing the world through his lens with the same care and precision he brought to every facet of his life.

Following his honorable discharge, Alan continued his education and earned a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of New Haven. He went on to enjoy a long and successful career in accounting, ultimately serving as Chief Financial Officer for several manufacturing companies across Connecticut. Alan shared 46 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Shawn. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures on and off the water.  Whether boating, sailing, jet skiing, or simply enjoying the calm of a coastal sunset, Alan was at peace near the sea. Annual visits to Cape May, weekend getaways to Fishers Island, and countless voyages on the waters of the East Coast with family and friends were among his most cherished memories.  A true car enthusiast and self-proclaimed "King of Craigslist," Alan had a passion for buying, trading, and cruising around in vehicles of all kinds. Alan and his son Matthew had a special bond, with many shared interests, passions, and values that Alan instilled in him.  They had a mutual love for the water, dirt biking, car auctions and golf, among many other hobbies. Alan was amazed at Matt’s eye for photography, and he beamed with pride having witnessed Matt’s longtime dream of his podcast celebrating the contributions of Connecticut’s firefighters come to fruition just a few short weeks ago.  Alan was also a gifted, self-taught wood carver whose intricate figurines and hand-crafted jewelry showcased his patience and artistic eye. His creations were a testament to his quiet talent and attention to detail. His legacy lives on in the memories he created, the lives he touched, and the passions he pursued so fully.

In addition to his wife Shawn, he leaves his son Matthew, his brother, Bernard Cohen, his sister Francine Manuel and many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his sister, Rita Cohen.

In lieu of flowers, Alan may be remembered with contributions to the Plainville Senior Center Dial-A-Ride, 200 East St, Plainville, CT 06062 or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Family and friends may gather on Sunday August 24, 2025 from 5-7 p.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville.  Words of remembrance led by life celebrant Jesse Gnazzo will be shared at 7 p.m.   For online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com

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