Beryle Cohen

Beryle Cohen, of Baltimore, MD, passed away on Tuesday, March 17th, 2026, at the age of 91. He is survived by his devoted wife of over 61 years, Barbara Cohen (nee Pelovitz); loving sons and daughters-in-law, Erik Cohen, Neil (Suzanne) Cohen, and Dr. Stefanie Stevenson; and treasured grandchildren, Rachel Cohen, Lauren Cohen, Sydney Cohen, Elianah Cohen, Emma Cohen, Nathan Cohen, Abigail Cohen and Sophia Cohen. He was predeceased by his beloved son, Dr. Paul Cohen; precious first grandchildren, Devorah Cohen and Leika Cohen; cherished daughter-in-law, Marcia Cohen; loving sister, Naomi (Adolph) Seligman; and dear parents, Pauline and Paul Cohen.

Beryle lived life with remarkable energy and purpose, a man who never slowed down and never did anything halfway. Even in his later years, he remained deeply committed to his health, working out every day with the same discipline that defined so much of his life. He found joy and freedom in movement—whether carving down snowy slopes while skiing, sailing across open water, or riding his beloved Harley on his own or alongside friends from his motorcycle club.

His passion for wrestling was not only personal, but deeply influential. A member of both the Maryland and National Wrestling Hall of Fame, Beryle’s legacy extended far beyond his own accomplishments. As a coach at Laurel High School, he built a program defined not just by success, but by relentless work ethic, discipline, and accountability. He believed that excellence came from effort—often reminding those around him that the difference between good teams and great ones is simple: the willingness to work harder. He held himself to the same standard he set for others, teaching that a leader must give their very best before expecting it from anyone else.

Those who coached alongside him or learned under him carried his lessons for a lifetime. He emphasized preparation, responsibility, and constant self-improvement—instilling in his athletes the understanding that success was earned through dedication and integrity. Even at a small school, without the advantages of larger programs, Beryle produced championship teams and countless individual standouts, a testament to his belief in what commitment and perseverance could achieve. His words stayed with many long after their time on the mat, especially the message he shared upon entering the National Wrestling Hall of Fame: whatever you do, do it with pride, discipline, and the mindset to always give your best.

That same sense of dedication carried into every chapter of his life. As a United States Marine Corps Reservist, he was named Outstanding Marine of the Year, reflecting his deep sense of duty and excellence. As an educator, he shaped generations of students—teaching driver’s education, physical education, and serving as athletic director with the same passion and care he brought to coaching.

Above all else, Beryle’s greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren. They were the center of his world. He cherished every moment with them, whether it was a simple trip for ice cream or donuts, or just time spent together. He would do anything for them, and his love for them was boundless.

Beryle will be remembered not only for his strength and accomplishments, but for the lasting impact he had on others—the lessons he taught, the standards he set, and the lives he shaped. His influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Services at Sol Levinson's Chapel, 8900 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville, MD 21208, on Sunday, March 22nd, 2026, at 1:00 PM. Interment United Hebrew Cemetery. Please omit flowers. Contributions in his memory may be made to Santoni’s for Shiva arrangements on Monday and Tuesday at (410) 833-6610. Contributions may also be made to Marcia Courage In Action, 733 Rustling Leaf Court, Eldersburg, MD 21784 or ThinkFirst Foundation, 2206 N. Main St., #277, Wheaton, IL 60187. Shiva will continue on Monday and Tuesday at Quarry Lake Clubhouse, 2525 Quarry Lake Dr, Baltimore, MD 21209, from 1:00-4:00 and 6:30-8:30. Shiva services will take place both evenings at 7:00 pm.