It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Sklar Cogen, 89, on the morning of May 28, 2024. He died from the effects of the devastating stroke he suffered many years ago. With great determination, he fought until the end to regain what he had lost and continued to make the most of what he had. Robert had a long life of adventuring, creating and helping others, but the baling wire and duct tape could not hold him together any longer.

He was many things in his long life: herpetologist, lawyer, artist, kinetic pilot, writer, gourmet, naturalist, overall scientist, poet, scuba diver, tour guide and educator. Robert lived life to the fullest.

For those of us who were family, he leaves a hole that cannot be filled. We honor his memory by living our lives with joy and a spirit of adventure.

Robert is survived by his wife Christine (Curtis), his daughter Amy Berkowitz and her husband Cliff, daughter Karen North, grandsons Alexander Berkowitz, Michael Berkowitz, Brian North, and granddaughter Mallory North. Also sisters-in-law Kimberly Swan, Deborah Schwartz Lipke (Randy), Lindarose Bruce (James), Terri Douglas (Ross), niece Jessica Swan-Purchio (Cameron) and many other nieces and nephews.

Robert was predeceased by his parents Harry and Dena Cogen, his sister Suzanne Cogen and close friends David Walker and Peter Presnell. Our deepest gratitude to Frye’s Care Home, Redwood Coast PACE, and Hospice of Humboldt for their exceptional and thoughtful care; and to his faithful friend, John Porter, who brought so much happiness to Robert at their Monday evening get togethers.

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