Donald "Don" Valdian Cohen

Donald “Don” Valdian Cohen passed away, with his two sons by his side, in Victoria, Texas on April 14, 2023, at the age of 76. Don was born May 23, 1946, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Joan and Jacob Cohen. After Jacob was widowed, he remarried Ray Cohen, who raised Don and his sister Debbie Cohen Mansheffer.

After graduating in 1964, from Pascack Valley Regional High School in Hillsdale, New Jersey, Don enlisted in the United States Air Force. He traveled the world and was stationed in Japan, England, and Spain. While in England, he met the love of his life, Carol Ann Collins. They were married for over 50 years, and he often spoke of their exciting courtship and her loving family.

Always the hard worker (and with Carol’s encouragement and support!), Don attended college on nights and weekends, earning his Bachelor of Science in Business Management and was accepted into the USAF Officer Training School. While serving as an officer, he continued his education, and obtained a Master of Business Administration.

In 1990, Don’s decorated military career ended with retirement as a Major at Carswell Air Force Base in Fort Worth, Texas. Don was highly respected and admired by both those under his command and his commanding officers. His final military review included commendations such as, “outstanding”, “excellent”, “exceptional manner”, “thrives on intense pressure”, and “a top-quality officer and leader of men!” Don didn’t boast about his military accomplishments. Rather, he believed that actions speak louder than words.

Military retirement was not the end of Don’s work life; he also had a successful second career as a financial advisor for both Prudential and Morgan Stanley where he developed meaningful business and personal friendships with many of his clients and associates.

Once settled in Fort Worth, Don and Carol spent several years designing and building their dream home. They both loved cruising, dining out and entertaining, and they were able to do just that with their family and friends for many years, until Carol’s passing in 2020.

In 2021, Don moved to Victoria, Texas to be closer to his sons and family.

Don was a people person, and never met a stranger. He was always ready to provide sound advice or a joke. In addition to traveling and enjoying a glass of wine, Don loved investing and watching the market. He was passionate about golf and Texas Longhorn sports.

Don is survived by his two children, Matthew Cohen and his wife Arby, of Houston, Texas and Paul Cohen and his wife Kristie, of Victoria, Texas; nine grandchildren, Brandon Cohen, Brian Cohen, Donny Cohen, Dawson Cohen, Kanella Cohen, Caroline Cohen, Jacob Cohen, Liam Cohen and Luke Cohen; and three great-grandchildren, Abigail Cohen, Olivia Cohen and Lillian Cohen. He is also survived by his sister, Debbie Cohen Mansheffer of Margaretville, New York and her husband Bob; and niece Nicola Rich of Edgewater Park, New Jersey and her husband Rick.

Don’s wishes were to be cremated, and his and Carol’s ashes are to be placed together, at a later date, in Carol’s native Ireland.

Special thanks to Hospice of South Texas for their care and support for Don during his last week. Words cannot express the family’s gratitude. And heartfelt appreciation to his grandson, Donny, who came to live with, and care for Don, in his final days.

In lieu of gifts or flowers, donations may be made in the memory of Donald V. Cohen at either: Hospice of South Texas, online at hospice-vic.org/donate/ or via mail, 1005 Mallette Dr., Victoria, TX 77904-3318 or The Victoria Area Texas Exes Scholarship Fund, 809 Champions Row, Victoria, Texas 77904 or Donor’s choice.

Words of comfort, condolences and fond memories can be shared with the family at www.colonialfuneralhomevictoria.com.