William M. Cogan

William “Bill” Merrit Rathbun Cogan, 91, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2025, in Plattsburgh, NY, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born to Dorothy May Cogan and Oliver Rathbun on March 9, 1934, at Physicians Hospital. When his parents divorced, Bill and his brother John were raised by their beloved grandparents, William H. and Jessie Cogan. Bill later adopted their surname, honoring their legacy. Bill was a devoted husband to Erma Wilson Cogan, a dedicated co-parent and former spouse to Carol Harris Cogan, and a loving father to Christopher William Cogan (who predeceased him), Carla Cogan of Fairfax, CA, and Kevin Cogan (Lisa) of Plattsburgh, NY. Through marriage, he embraced four cherished children: Michael (Melanie) Young, Cindy Young, Kimberly (Glenn) Zivitski, of Burlington, VT, and Shane Young of Plattsburgh, NY. His love extended to his grandchildren—Patrick Zivitski, Alexandra (Jason) Hamilton, Kaylee (John) Zivitski, Catherine (Corey) Potter, and Ciara Rose Cogan—as well as his great-grandchildren, Keagan O’Connell, Logan Hamilton, Piper Hamilton, Mia Potter, and Miles Potter, and to numerous beloved nieces and nephews. Bill is now reunited with his son Chris and grandson Patrick. A proud graduate of Mount Assumption Institute (Class of 1951), Bill attended the University of Notre Dame before earning his degree in Business Administration and Philosophy from St. Michael’s College in 1956. His education laid the foundation for a remarkable career managing the family business, Plattsburgh Electric Supply, Inc., for more than four decades before transitioning to roles that reflected his deep commitment to helping others: as a counselor at Chateaugay Correctional Facility and later as Director of Transportation for the Clinton County Advocacy and Resource Center (ARC). Bill’s dedication to advocacy was evident throughout his life. He devoted himself to improving the lives of children and adults with special needs, founding and leading organizations such as the Brain Injured Children’s Association and the Clinton County Association for Children with Learning Disabilities. He was a longtime board member and President of the ARC, served as a member and Vice President of the Plattsburgh Board of Education, and was a key figure on the Committee for the Handicapped for the Plattsburgh City School District. Bill was also a longtime member and sponsor of Alcoholics Anonymous, where he made many enduring friendships. His commitment to community service extended to the American Cancer Society, where he was a director and speaker, and the Elks Lodge #621, the Knights of Columbus Council #255, and the Kiwanis Club. A devoted St. Peter’s Church member, Bill lived his faith actively—serving as an altar boy, choir member, usher, and Parish Council member. His deep spirituality was matched only by his passion for music. An accomplished trombone player, he performed with the Notre Dame marching band, various dance bands, and, later, the highly regarded “Big Sound” band. Whether on stage or in church, his love for music was undeniable. Beyond this, Bill had an insatiable curiosity about the world. He was an avid hunter and lifetime member of the Ward Pond Hunting Club in Paul Smiths, NY. He found joy in the great outdoors, appreciating the camaraderie and tradition of the sport and sharing that with his sons. Bill also loved to travel and explore historical sites across Europe, Russia, Canada, Bermuda, and many other favorite destinations. His enthusiasm for history and culture enriched his life and inspired those around him. Bill lived with humor, passion, and an unwavering dedication to those he loved. He never did anything halfway—whether advocating for children with disabilities, mentoring prisoners, or making sure his friends and family were well cared for, he gave his all. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, the stories he told, and the music he cherished. A celebration of Bill’s life will be held in the spring. The family invites you to honor Bill in a way he would appreciate: help someone in need, tell a great joke, root for Notre Dame, play some good music—extra points if it’s jazz or big band—or raise a toast in his honor. Bill’s life was a testament to love, service, and unwavering dedication to family and community. May we honor his memory by embracing his spirit, generosity, and commitment to making the world a better place.