Robert J Coogan

July 1, 1936 - February 25, 2022

Robert J. Coogan a.k.a. Coogie was born in Manhattan, New York on July 1, 1936. He was the eldest of eight children born to Dorothy and James Mc Cord. He is survived by his younger sister Gerri Neyhart and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. His brother Errol and sisters Charmaine, Anne, Barbara, Ethel, Geraldine, and Janet all shared a tight bond from childhood through their adult lives. This bond was so strong it extended through his siblings’ children and their children. He was an amazing, free-spirited person, and a wonderful, caring, loving son, brother, uncle, godfather, and friend. We often referred to Uncle Bob as the “Don” of the family and he truly was the bond that kept everyone together. Uncle Bob put family and friends first, lending a helping hand when ever needed. Throughout the years Uncle Bob welcomed many family members and friends into his home. He mentored many of us and his willingness to lend a comforting ear and advice was unwavering. He was always there for us. Uncle Bob would always say we were a family of survivors and when the song “We Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor played, he would be up in a flash snapping his fingers, singing, and dancing. His love of music drew him to work in the music industry at Joy Music. Uncle Bob was notorious for his music collection and loved to share his knowledge of music with everyone. He was a frequent shopper at Tower Records in Manhattan, he went there so frequently the staff knew him by name. He loved all genres of music, but his all-time favorite was of course ‘Ol Blue Eyes Frank Sinatra with “New York New York.” He worked at the World Trade Center for years and he valued having strong work ethics. After working twenty plus years at the Asia Society, he retired and moved to Florida, to be closer to his mother. Even though Uncle Bob never drove he managed to navigate his way around Florida with ease and was always on the go, schlepping packages from here to there. I would often spot Uncle Bob bebopping around town wearing his backpack with packages in hand and I would take him to where he needed to go. Family and friends were the most important thing to Uncle Bob, and he would often say how blessed he was to have so many close lifetime friends who dearly loved him. He loved to entertain and cook. His gatherings and garlic chicken were infamous. The smell of his garlic chicken would spread throughout the building at St. Mark’s Place in Staten Island. Friends and neighbors loved his chicken so much they would barter with him to have a piece. He also had a passion for eating his favorite foods prepared by his sister Gerri and we all know those yummy noises he was famous for. Uncle Bob had a mischievous playful side to him, and he loved to play little pranks and practical jokes. His energetic and youthful attitude were inspiring. He had a zest for life and would often say how truly blessed he was to have such amazing friends in his life and to be surrounded by such a loving family. He would tell us how important this is in life. Uncle Bob loved to share his stories and boy there were lots. Throughout the years, we shared many fun times and cherished memories that we will never forget. You will remain in our hearts forever. Until we see you again. Rest in Peace. We love you Uncle Bob.