Unique Vacations Inc. (UVI), an affiliate of the worldwide representatives of Sandals Resorts International (SRI), announces the death of long-time employee, Warren Cohen. Cohen passed away Wednesday. He was 62.
According to SRI Chairman, Gordon “Butch” Stewart, Cohen had been battling cancer in recent months, but throughout his illness, he never stopped working, never stopped contributing.
“Warren represented Sandals and Beaches in the best way possible and he did this throughout his illness, which is a testament not only to his spirit but to the people who supported him," Stewart said in a written release. "Warren was everybody’s friend and we will miss him more than words can express.”
A fixture in the travel industry for more than three decades, Cohen developed a reputation as an affable gentlemen of boundless energy and was an expert on the travel distribution system and the evolving relationship between suppliers and wholesalers.
He began his career at New York-based Flyfaire Vacations in 1973, working for legendary travel executive Joe Garzilli. According to Chairman Stewart, he was bequeathed Cohen following Flyfaire’s closure on the heels of Eastern Airlines’ bankruptcy filing in 1989.
“Joe called and literally said, ‘I am leaving Warren Cohen with you,’ it was among the better presents I ever had,” said Stewart.
Cohen remained at UVI until his death this week, rising through the ranks to his last position as Senior Vice President, Tour Operator Marketing & Sales.
He leaves behind wife Christine; three adult children, sons Michael and Danny and daughter, Jamie; and a brother, Stuart. The family invites callers to celebrate Cohen’s life Sunday, November 2 between 2-5 p.m. at the Joseph A. Scarano Pines Memorial Chapel in Pembroke Pines, Florida. Donations in his honor can be made to The American Cancer Society.