Jerry Cosner, 84, passed away on March 11, 2021. Jerry was born in Kansas City to Ben and Esther Cosner. He graduated from Paseo High School in 1954, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Georgia Tech and a master’s degree in business from the University of Chicago. Jerry worked as an engineer, consultant and later as the president of American Ingredients in Kansas City.
In 1960, Jerry married his wife, Barbara, whom he had known since childhood. They moved to Akron, Ohio, and later to Chicago before returning to the Kansas City area in 1971.
Jerry was a true mensch. He was both respected and respectful as an employer, always ensuring that those he worked with were treated fairly. Honesty was a true motto for him. After he retired, he devoted his time to studying the stock market and exchanging information with his brokers, playing golf, and attending the symphony and theater, and enjoying time with his Romeo friends. Jerry was a member of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah and Beth Shalom.
Above all, Jerry loved his family and valued the trips and special occasions he spent with his kids and grandkids.
Jerry was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Melvin Cosner; nephew, Alan Cosner; and sister and brother-in-law, Harriet and Maurice Dubinsky. Jerry is survived by his wife, Barbara; children, Jody Cosner, Brenda (Robert) Ruben and Brian Cosner; grandchildren, Hillary (Kyle) Kidwell, Laura Kaplan, Jake (Melissa) Ruben, Will Ruben and Ben Ruben; great-grandchildren, Jackson Garret Kidwell and Carter Benjamin Kidwell; sister-in-law, Sibby Cosner; and many loving nieces and nephews.
The family suggests contributions to Jewish Family Services in Jerry’s memory, or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences for the family may be left at www.louismemorialchapel.com.
Arrangements entrusted to The Louis Memorial Chapel, 816-361-5211.
