Bruce Douglas Cohen

Bruce Douglas Cohen, affectionately known as "Beav" by those who knew him best, passed away after a tough battle with cancer on July 4, 2024, at the age of 74 in Granger, Indiana. Born on September 26, 1949, in South Bend, Indiana, Bruce's journey was one marked by joy, community, and a deep love for his family and friends.

Bruce's early years were spent at New Prairie High School in LaPorte County, where he first showcased his athletic talents. He later attended Ball State University on a baseball scholarship. This multitalented athlete then finished his higher education at Indiana University, Bloomington, where he was endorsed into the PGA by Bobby Knight, marking the start of a distinguished career in golf. Beginning a teaching career as the women’s golf coach at IU, Bruce’s professional life then took him to esteemed golf clubs across the country, including The Point Golf Club in Bloomington, Colonial Country Club in New Orleans, Chimney Rock Golf Club in Napa, California, and local clubs in Granger, Indiana, Knollwood Country Club and Juday Creek Golf Course. Known for his intuitive teaching methods and competitive spirit, Bruce was a quarter finalist in the state PGA match-play championship and had top finishes in stroke-play championships.

After a successful career in golf, Bruce transitioned to the insurance industry, where he excelled as a top broker at Aflac. His achievements in this field were numerous, earning him trips and awards which he generously shared with his loved ones.

Bruce's personal life was filled with the same passion he showed in his professional endeavors. Known for his infectious laugh and exceptional dance moves, Bruce was the life of any gathering. Having mastered the art of friendship, he maintained all of his relationships until the very end of his life. He cherished moments spent with his family, listening to Motown, playing golf, enjoying a Johnny Walker Red on the rocks, and buying gifts for his grandchildren, whom he adored immensely. Bruce's motto with his grandchildren was simple: the word "no" was not in his vocabulary.

Bruce is survived by his devoted wife of 33 years, Judith Ann Cohen (née Dippon); his brother, Jeff Trumble (Judy & family); and his sister, Carla Waite & family. His legacy continues through his children, Abigail Pollyea (Jeremy) and Jesse Burleson, and his beloved grandchildren, Cole, Elliot, Julien, and Nola. His family pets, Daisy Jones and Tiffany, will also miss his loving presence.

A celebration of Bruce's life will be held at Knollwood Country Club in Granger, Indiana, on Wednesday evening, July 24, 2024 from 5:00pm-8:00pm, as per his wishes. This gathering will not only reflect on his remarkable life but also the indelible impact he had on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Bruce's legacy of joy, generosity, and love will forever resonate with his family, friends, and all who were touched by his vibrant spirit.

Memorial contributions will be made in Bruce’s honor to Center for Hospice Care and the South Bend-Elkhart Audubon Society.

Elkhart Cremation Services has been entrusted with his care.

To conclude, Bruce’s family would like to end by quoting lyrics to one of his favorite songs, Lido Shuffle, by Bob Scaggs. Bruce took Judi, Abbi, and Cole to see him perform last summer, a memory that we are all very grateful for. He danced throughout the show and had the best time. Cheers to Beav, and all that he was to so many.

Lido, whoa

He said, “One more job oughta get it”

“One last shot ‘fore we quit it”

“One more for the road”

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bruce Douglas Cohen, please visit our floral store.