The Death of John Cogley (2023) - Coeur d'Alene, Idaho - Coeur d'Alene-Post Falls Press

The news of the sudden death of John Philip Cogley Jr. was posted by the Cogley family in the Coeur d'Alene / Post Falls Press on February 5, 2023.

John Philip, or Papa John and Johnny, as he was affectionately known, passed away at the age of seventy-seven on Saturday, December 31, 2022, after visiting relatives for the holidays. Johnny was a true Irishman with a beckoning gaze, an amused smile, and a gift for eloquence. As his oldest granddaughter said, "He won the hearts of many people with his funny personality. "

John was a professor at Eastern Washington University for 27 years, directed the Therapeutic Recreation program and served as chair of the Physical Education, Health and Recreation Department for six years. He was a passionate educator who guided students of all ages to achieve their academic goals. In the 80's, John was instrumental in establishing the adaptive skiing program at Mt. Spokane.

For the past eight years, John and his wife, Patty, have lived in retirement in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. John is survived by his wife Patty after forty-six years of marriage, three sons, Phil and Lori Cogley, Chris and Sheri Cogley, Chris and Sheri Cogley, Ryan and Christy Cogley and daughter Megan and Michael Dehdashtian. Papa John was proud and happy of his nine grandchildren, Melissa and Trevor, Kien and Dylan, Carter and Kenley, Alessia, Hudson and Andrew John. Their ages ranged from five to nineteen years old. Also left to John is a sister, Kathy Buchanan.

In lieu of flowers, his parents have asked for donations to Special Olympics Idaho Charities or Therapeutic Recreation (an adaptive ski program) in Spokane, Washington.

June 3, a celebration of John's life will be held at Eastern Washington University. Please visit the website to confirm attendance and download photos and stories.