Leonard Albert Cognion

Leonard Albert Cognion, 83, of Coshocton, passed away Wednesday, June 30, 2021, at Akron General Hospital. Leonard was born July 12, 1937, in Coshocton County to Walter Vincent and Flora L. (Fouts) Cognion. He graduated in 1955 from Plainfield High School. On June 27, 1969, he married the love of his life, W. Darlene (Shaw) Adams, who preceded him in death March 20, 2009. Reunited with his beloved, they now walk the streets of Heaven together.

Leonard served in the United States Air Force. He worked for GE as a foreman for 18 years and worked for Carl Cognion Construction for 28 years before retiring in 2003. He was a devoted member of the Prairie Chapel United Methodist Church.

He undoubtedly loved his family and friends dearly, and treasured the time he spent with any of them. He was a stubborn, hard-working carpenter (claiming to be retired, but continuing to work until, and including, the day of the accident that ultimately claimed his life), who always took great pride in his work. His work ethic was unmatched, always honing his trade, learning and trying new things, even at an advanced age, very capable and practicing until his death. He loved to mentor others in woodworking and the building trades, and welcomed a new challenge. He could frequently be heard to say “We can do that. I’m not sure how yet, but we can figure it out.”

His faith ran deep, and his desire to serve was strong. The list of things he did for others is endless, with no expectation of anything in return. He was always Johnny-on-the-spot, eager to come to anyone’s aid without hesitation, and quick to donate to church, family or friends. If he learned of a need for someone, he would just show up and take care of it, not seeking recognition. 

He had a wonderful sense of humor and delighted in sharing stories. He enjoyed riding his motor scooter with family and friends, often on a quest for delicious food. (He was particularly fond of salmon patties, pork and sauerkraut, homemade soups, macaroni & cheese, macaroni salad, and apple dumplings.) He rarely declined an invitation to eat at the home of friends or family, or to meet for food and fellowship at his favorite diner. Sundays spent playing Euchre at his sister’s home were some of his favorite times, as were any and all family gatherings, especially holidays or celebrations, surrounded by grandchildren and loved ones.

Leonard is survived by two daughters, Rita L. Cognion (George Ziga) of Alexandria, VA, and Ronda E. (John) Kenney of Newcomerstown, OH; two stepsons, Randy K. Adams and Chris A. (Dianne) Adams both of Fresno, OH; two grandchildren, Shawn (Lindsay) Kenney and Shannon (Chase) Heston; six step-grandchildren, Tammy (Ed) Rexroad, Johnnie (Amy) Kenney, Todd (Megan) Kenney, Amanda (Ryan) Eckelberry, Eva Marie (Kody Richardson) Adams and Clinton Adams; seven great-grandchildren, Kenley, Turner, Raylan, Dalton and Sadie Heston, Aubrey and Everly Kenney; 11 step-great-grandchildren, Hannah (Andrew) Wright, Jessie (Chase) Addy, Alyson (Austin) Zufelt, Cherokee Fenwick, Colt, Claire and Cash Kenney, Nolan and Lennon Eckelberry and Karson and Avery Richardson; six step-great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Ann (Allan) Otterstedt of Coshocton; several nieces and nephews, including special nephew and friend, Kirk Cognion; and dear and valued friends.

In addition to his parents and wife, Leonard was preceded in death by two brothers, Donald Cognion and William Cognion; three sisters, infant sister, Dorothy Miller and Sara Viola Grewell.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 7, 2021, at the Free Funeral Home, Coshocton, Ohio, with Pastor Dail Parrish officiating. Interment will follow at Prairie Chapel Cemetery, with the Coshocton County Veterans Council performing military honors. Calling hours will be held two hours prior to the service on Wednesday at the funeral home.  In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to either the Coshocton County Handicapped Society or the Prairie Chapel United Methodist Church. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.freefuneralhome.com.

Category: Obituaries