Al Cohen, 86, of Leawood, passed away Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013, at Menorah Medical Center.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 22, at Ararat Shrine Center, 5100 Ararat Drive, Kansas City, Mo. Royal Order of Jesters Rose Ceremony and reception immediately to follow. Private entombment in Mount Moriah Cemetery, Kansas City, Mo.
Al was born in Kansas City on Jan. 15, 1927, the youngest of Ruby and Helen Cohen’s six children. He attended Central High School where he graduated early so he could join the United States Army. On his 18th birthday, he sailed to Japan to serve his country during the U.S. occupation. When Al returned home, he attended the University of Kansas where he earned his undergraduate degree in business. After graduating, Al joined his brothers, Jerry, Harry and Bob, as a business partner at Tempo Company. He later became president of Fineline Products Inc., an office products company he and his son, Cris, started in 1989.
Al was a dedicated member of the Ararat Shrine. He joined the organization in 1960 as a member of the Oriental Band Unit and later served as its president. His commitment to the Ararat Shrine culminated in holding the highest position — Potentate in 1975. In addition to his affiliation with the Ararat Shrine, Al was also a member of Demolay, Masons and the Scottish Rite. Al also served as director of the Royal Order of Jesters.
When he wasn’t attending a Shrine function, Al could usually be found participating in a sport. If he wasn’t on the golf course, he was playing racquetball at the Overland Park Athletic Club. He also liked to snow ski and was an avid water skier who enjoyed spending many years with friends and family at his Lake of the Ozarks cottage. Al was a sports car enthusiast and over the years belonged to several sports car clubs. He enjoyed showing friends the video of him skydiving at the age of 83 while vacationing in Mexico. Not only did Al participate in sports, but he enjoyed being a spectator, especially when cheering for his KU Jayhawks.
Al was preceded in death by his parents and five siblings. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Betty; his two sons, Barry and Cris (Kim); and his three granddaughters, Ariana, Haleigh and Camryn.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ararat Shrine TeleMedicine Unit, c/o Ararat Shrine Center. Condolences may be offered at www.mtmoriah-freeman.com.
