Mr. Richard Spencer Cogswell

August 8, 1932 - May 7, 2017

Dick Cogswell, 84, of Debary, FL passed away on Sunday, May 7th, 2017 after a long battle with COPD. Dick was born in Chelsea, MI and was one of 9 children born to James K. and Grace Cogswell. In 1951, Dick joined the USMC, and served in the Korean Conflict with the 1st Marine Division. After he returned from Korea, he settled in Ypsilanti, MI and worked as a brakeman for New York Central Railroad. In the 60's he owned and operated Wood 'N Craft, Inc. in Ypsilanti, MI. He designed, built and installed custom kitchen and bathroom cabinets. In 1972 he moved to Locke, NY where he built and ran Owasco Valley Campground as well as worked as a construction superintendent. In his spare time he became known as a master woodworker. He built a large shop in his barn and would often cut down trees and plane the wood before using it to build beautiful pieces of furniture. In 1999 he moved to Debary, FL, downsized his shop and dedicated his time to the art of wood turning. He won many 1st place ribbons at the various shows he attended for his unique and original works of art. He also was very proud of his 35 years of sobriety and worked the 12th step in the fellowship of AA. He attended meetings throughout his sobriety, until his health prevented him from going, as he found he needed to keep going back to hear the repetitious BS in order for him to stay sober. He was well known for his colorful language, his “opinion of the day” and the many stories he could tell. He was a lifetime member of the VFW, a member of the American Association of Woodturners and the Debary Art League. Dick was married to his wife Mary for 42 years before she passed in 1997. He has spent the past 18 years with Liz Shults, loving her and loving life as they traveled and enjoyed their golden years together. He and Mary had 5 daughters. His daughter Marna preceded him in death but he is survived by the other four, Cindy (Ralph) Miller of Astoria, OR, Pam (John) McDougall of Kissimmee, FL, Carrie (Gary) Flesher of Little Egg Harbor, NJ and Seccy (Rick) Carson of Phoenix, AZ. He is survived by 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brothers Jim, Frenchie, John, and Timothy and his sister Meriem. He is survived by his brothers Sam (Maryann) Cogswell, Chuck (Carol) Crowley and his sister Harriet Cornett as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. No services will be held at this time. He will be cremated and interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a future date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Union Chapel Cemetery, c/o Delores Murley Bailey 7170 Edwards Road Belleville, MI 48111-1189. Online condolences may be made at www.allensummerhill.com. Allen-Summerhill DeLand is in charge.