Leslie Cohen

Leslie Hochman Cohen, of Wilmette, IL, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026. She was the beloved wife of Brian Cohen for 39 years; loving mother of Samantha Cohen Dhuyvetter (Schuylar) and Matthew (Cassidy) Cohen.

Leslie was predeceased by her mother, Carole z”l and her sister, Debra z”l Feiger (Jordan); and is survived by her father, Larry Hochman, and brothers Alan (Cyndi) Hochman and Michael (Connie) Hochman.

She was the devoted aunt of Joshua (Abigail), Daniel (Madalyn), Jillian, Devyn, Ryan (Haley), Edward (Alison), William, Kayla, and Alex; and adoring great-aunt to Lilah, Dylan, Carson, and Asher.

Born on May 27, 1963, in Chicago, Illinois, she grew up with a strong sense of curiosity and compassion that would guide her throughout her life. She graduated from New Trier West High School in 1981 and earned her bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning from Indiana University in 1985.

In 1986, she married her loving husband, Brian, in Chicago. The couple began their life together in St. Louis before eventually settling in Wilmette, where they built a home filled with laughter, tradition, and enduring memories.

She was a passionate fitness instructor who inspired countless individuals through her work at various locations, including the Wilmette Park District, where she dedicated years to helping others lead healthy and active lives. Her energy, positivity, and encouragement left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

An avid traveler, she embraced the world with open arms and a sense of adventure, including her participation in the Semester at Sea program (Class of 1983), which reflected her lifelong love of learning and exploration.

Above all, she cherished her family. She found immense joy in hosting gatherings, bringing loved ones together, and creating meaningful traditions. She also loved attending Chicago Cubs games with her family, creating lasting memories. A talented baker, she was the keeper of treasured family recipes. She was especially known for her beloved banana bread—passed down from her grandmother—which became a symbol of her care and generosity.

She will be remembered for her warmth, her vibrant spirit, and her unwavering devotion to those she loved. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the memories she created.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation at https://tinyurl.com/463unj8k in memory of Leslie Cohen and Debbie Feiger. Or to the World Wildlife Fund at https://tinyurl.com/WWF-LC in memory of Leslie Cohen.

For shiva information please contact the funeral home.