Jerry Kogan

Jerry Kogan, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on July 17, 2026, at the age of 80.

Born on April 29, 1946 in Krasnoyarsk, Russia, Jerry was the son of the late Isaac Kogan and Rosa Katz. The family moved to Kharkiv, Ukraine where he eventually received his Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering from Kharkiv Polytechnic University. In 1989, he accomplished the feat he considered greatest in his life - moving his entire family to the United States to start a new life. We continue to be eternally grateful for that powerful and courageous act.

Jerry’s greatest joy in life was his family. He was the devoted husband of Olga Duda, with whom he shared 50 beautiful years of marriage and partnership. Together, they built a life rich in love, laughter, and shared devotion, raising their son, Michael Duda.

He was a proud father and mentor, always offering steady encouragement, quiet strength, and endless love. He welcomed his daughter-in-law, Jennifer Cleary, into the family with open arms, and took immense pride in his granddaughter, Sophia, who brought a special light to his later years.

Jerry will be remembered for many things: his strong-willed nature, his competitive spirit and self-reliance; his wonderful sense of humor; his soft side, with an appreciation for art, nature, and beauty; a massive dream garden he built by hand in his retirement; but mostly for his steadfast and pragmatic approach to life itself.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Olga Duda; his son, Michael, and daughter-in-law, Jennifer; his beloved granddaughter, Sophia; his brother Boris (and his family) and his twin sister Lora and her family. Many other extended family members, neighbors, and close friends will miss him deeply.

Visitation and services will take place at Higgins Funeral Home in New City, NY, on Friday, July 24, 2026 from 10:00am - 12:00pm. He will be laid to rest at Kensico Cemetery in Valhalla, NY at 1:00pm. In honor of Jerry’s memory, please plant something beautiful and watch it grow.