When founding member William R. "Bill" Cohen, 86, passed away on September 16, 2006, Beth Ami suffered a huge loss. Bill, with his wife of 64 years, Ruth, was one of the members that sat down with Rabbi Fred Grosse in 1978 and created Beth Ami Temple.

Bill was an active member of the temple. He was a long-time member of the Beth Ami Steering Committee and an active participant at all Temple events. Along with his wife, Ruth, daughter Ravelle (who passed away in 1998), and grandsons, Brian and Randy also joined the temple at its inception. It was a common sight for 3 generations of Bill's family to be present at most Temple events.

Bill, a Real Estate Agent, was active in the community as well. He was a charter member of the Phoenix Midtown Lions Club and a Life Member of the Brandeis National Woman's Committee.

Bill's is survived by his wife of 64 years, Ruth; daughters Eileen Robideau (David) and Laura Cohen-Hogan (Bill); grandchildren Brian, Randy, Amanda, Benjamin, Michael, Bruce & great granddaughter Parker.