Lipman “Bip” Cohen, December 14, 1935 – May 4, 2025

Lipman “Bip” Cohen passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at the age of 89.

He was born and raised in University City, Missouri, later moving to Creve Coeur, where he and his wife Esther raised their daughters. They moved to Cleveland, Ohio, in their later years to be closer to family. Bip was predeceased by his wife of nearly 48 years, Esther Kleinsztern Cohen; his sister, Marcia Cohen; and his parents, Morris and Sadie (Binder) Cohen.

He is survived by his children Byron Cohen, Susan Cohen Osser, Lisa Cohen (Alec) Stone, and Barbie Cohen (Drew) Barnholtz and his grandchildren Jonathan and Melissa Osser. He was also a loving Zaida to his grandchildren Aviva (Max) Katz, Arianna (Elliot) Tanzman, Ayden (Danielle) Stone, Aryeh Stone, Sadie and Stella Barnholtz; and his great-grandchildren Olivia, Theo, and Annie.

After graduating college as a trained mechanic, Bip worked alongside his father at Sell Rite Market and later spent 40 years in the grocery and hardware business at Friedman Railroad Salvage. He loved the game of buying and selling. For years, he would also work with Esther at her dinette store, assembling tables and chairs. A butcher, grocer and mechanic by trade he could build or fix almost anything, and he had the tools for all types of projects. He loved working in the yard, and his green thumb produced beautiful flowers, plants, fruits and vegetables. In retirement, Bip built colorful birdhouses for his children and grandchildren, which decorate their yards.

Together, Bip and Esther enjoyed traveling, hosting holiday gatherings and playing cards with friends. Their home was filled with family photos and albums, a reflection of what mattered most to them. Known for always having a joke or a story to tell, Bip brought joy to those around him with his wit, warmth, and a twinkle in his eye.

Over the years Bip and Esther were active members of Congregation B’nai Amoona, Shaare Zedek, and Traditional Congregation in St. Louis. Tradition was important to him, and he instilled a love of Judaism in his daughters, that they are passing on to their own families. Lipman “Bip” Cohen will be missed by his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Graveside service Wednesday, May 7, 11:00am at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 650 White Road.  Live stream available at www.rindskopfroth.com.  Contributions in his memory may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

A RINDSKOPF-ROTH SERVICE