Richard W. Cohen

Born in Boston on September 21, 1936, Richard was the son of Albert J. and Dorothy Cohen and grew up in the Boston area. He proudly served his country as a lieutenant in the United States Army Signal Corps during the Korean War era.

A natural salesman and entrepreneur with a larger-than-life personality, Richard spent many years as a traveling salesman before becoming self-employed. Beginning in the 1980s, he and his wife, Doreen, operated a fashion jewelry business, traveling the flea-market, festival and show circuit throughout New England and Florida. His infectious laugh, ever-present smile and ability to talk to just about anyone made him a well-known figure on the circuit, where he was affectionately known as “The Golden Buddha.”

Richard was first married to the late Beverly Cohen, with whom he welcomed their son, Jeff. He later married Doreen Anderson Cohen, his beloved wife of nearly five decades. Richard and Doreen complemented one another beautifully, building a life, family and business together while spending many years between Connecticut and Florida.

Richard loved to read, especially James Bond novels, and passed that love of books on to Jeff. He was also a lifelong Boston sports fan who loved the Celtics, Red Sox, Bruins and Patriots. Some of Jeff’s fondest childhood memories with his father include browsing bookstores together, going out to eat and shopping, traveling with him on sales trips, trips to the dog track, and attending Celtics and Red Sox games together.

Above all, Richard will be remembered for his big personality, generosity, tremendous work ethic, and the smile and laughter that seemed to follow him wherever he went. He was enormously proud of his family and especially proud of his son.

Richard was predeceased by his beloved wife, Doreen Anderson Cohen; his first wife and the mother of his son, Beverly Cohen; his parents, Albert J. and Dorothy Cohen; his sister, Irma Cohen; and his daughter, Katrina Rose Anderson.

He leaves behind his children, Jeff Cohen of Plymouth, Massachusetts; Kris Ronald Anderson; Kerstin Andrenna Anderson; and Kirk Joseph Anderson and his wife, Amy; his grandchildren, Chelsey Cohen, Ana Knapczyk, Archer Anderson, Ethan Anderson, William (Erik) Young, and Benjamin Smith, who affectionately called him “Pops”; his great-grandson, Brayden; and a large extended family who loved him dearly.

To many, he was “The Golden Buddha.” To his family, he was Dad, Grandpa and Pops—a good man, a great father, and someone whose unmistakable presence will be deeply missed.

A private graveside service will be held at Maplewood Cemetery in Norwich, CT