Manuel Cohen

Brighton-Manuel (Manny) Cohen, passed away peacefully on 12/6/25 at the age of 100 at the home of his daughter and son-in-law where he was lovingly cared for the past five years since the passing of his beloved wife, Esther.

Manny was born on 6/27/25 in Rochester, NY, the older of two children of the late Bennie and Fannie Cohen nee Rosen. He proudly served as Standard Bearer at #20 School and always excelled academically. He graduated from Franklin High School and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Rochester in 1949. Manny  served in the US Air Force during the Korean War. He obtained his Professional Engineering License and enjoyed a long and successful career as a Civil Engineer with Monroe County. He retired in 1989 and became “Manny the Nanny” to his first grandson, Michael. At the end of the school year, Esther joined him in providing childcare for Michael and later, Sam too. Family was everything to Manny. He was happiest spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren. He was an extremely warm and kind gentleman and lovingly welcomed his widowed father-in-law to live with his young family. Manny and Esther travelled extensively and also volunteered at Hope Hall for several years. Manny’s recent years were challenging as he lost his eyesight but never lost his sense of humor. He enjoyed simple pleasures like listening to music and going out for an ice cream cone. He will be forever loved and missed.

Manny is predeceased by his wife Esther;  sister and brother-in-law Anna Ethy and Bertram Frank , nephew Edward, and granddaughter Olivia, all of Los Angeles. He is survived by his daughter Rochelle Cohen Lempert (David); son David Cohen of Los Angeles; grandsons Michael Lempert (Maggie Luddy) and Samuel Lempert (Sarah Avery); nieces and nephews.

Funeral Service on TUESDAY, December 9, 2025 at 11 AM in The Chapel at Temple Beth El [139 Winton Rd. S. Rochester, New York 14610].  CLICK HERE for a map to Temple.

A procession will follow to Stone Road Cemetery.

For those unable to attend in person, please CLICK HERE to Zoom the service.

Shiva on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 39 Sutton Place, Rochester, New York 14620 from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM. CLICK HERE for a map to Shiva.

Contributions in Manny’s memory can be made to Goodwill Vision Enterprises, Hope Hall School or Temple Beth El of Rochester.