John Edwin Boone Cohnstaedt
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John's obituary
John Edwin Boone Cohnstaedt, known affectionately as Jack, passed away peacefully at home in San Francisco on March 27th, 2025. He was 77 years old.
Jack was born in 1947 in Sterling, Kansas. From a young age, Jack was known for his competitive nature and his vibrant personality that left an impact on everyone he met. He was not one to sit quietly in the background—he was always the first to share a story, crack a joke, or dive into an intense conversation. A gifted bridge player, passionate about sports, and well-read in current events, Jack’s sharp mind and love for conversation made him a captivating companion. Whether on the basketball court, at the ping pong table, or engaging in spirited debates about current events, Jack's energy and enthusiasm for life were undeniable. His family was central to his life, and he shared a special bond with his siblings, both in the US and Canada, whom he loved deeply.
Jack’s professional life was defined by his work as a taxi driver, which suited his gregarious nature perfectly. This work allowed him to build a network of connections throughout San Francisco, particularly with the local restaurant scene and the city’s many fascinating figures. His memory was sharp, and his ability to remember details about people and their lives was remarkable. He was proud of his ability to navigate San Francisco, a city he loved deeply, and he always enjoyed showing friends and family around the places he knew well.
One of the most significant relationships in Jack’s life was with his long-beloved partner, Luphina (Lu) Meachum. Jack deeply cherished Lu, and her passing was a loss that he never fully recovered from. The grief of losing her marked a pivotal chapter in Jack’s life, and he carried her memory with him until his final days.
Though Jack’s early years were spent outside of San Francisco, it was the city and its people that truly shaped his life. Jack’s time in the Tenderloin was marked by his deep connection to the community. Despite the challenges he faced, Jack found a sense of belonging in the neighborhood, and he was well-known at GLIDE, the Curry Senior Center, St. Anthony’s, and the public library. The family is immensely grateful for these organizations and their tireless work in supporting people like Jack. Your compassion and dedication made a difference in his life, and we are forever thankful.
Jack was not always easy to support, and for many years, his lifestyle was solely his choice. Later in life, it became harder for him to thrive as trauma and mental health struggles took their toll. Though his family lived far away, he was never without love and support. In the last years of his life, his nephew, Dan, and Dan's wife, Erica lovingly referred to as his "engineers," were always there to help. They secured him a phone, which enabled hours of conversation between brothers and check-ins with Nicci and Joy, helping to ease some of the isolation he increasingly felt. Most recently, Nicci made a trip to San Francisco with her partner Greg. Jack was not in good shape when they arrived, but by the time they left was in much better health and spirits. He began to engage with services and care in a way he had not before. His life was a testament to resilience. While he faced numerous personal challenges, he never lost his sense of humor, his desire to connect with others, or his love for his family. Even in his toughest moments, Jack's character shone through, and he was never defined by his hardships. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, whose loyalty and love for his family were unwavering.
Jack is survived by his siblings: Bill, Robert, Dolores, and Nicci, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will remember him fondly for his generous heart and his loud proclamations of love. Our family structure is complex and blended over the years, and while it’s impossible to list everyone who has preceded him, each of them held a special place in Jack’s heart. However, it is important to mention his beloved partner, Luphina Meachum; his mother, Rebecca Boone; his father, Martin Cohnstaedt; and his stepmother, Joy Cohnstaedt—all of whom he cherished deeply.
Jack was never shy about showing affection. His loud, heartfelt proclamations of love for his family and friends were a hallmark of his character. He loved deeply and showed that love in ways both big and small, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. We are comforted knowing that he passed away at home and not alone on the streets he loved. Jack’s later years were not without difficulty, but his legacy of love, connection, and joy will live on in the community he cared for.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Curry Senior Center, GLIDE,St. Anthony’s or any other organization that serves the Tenderloin community, in honor of the care they provided Jack throughout his life.
Rest in peace, Jack. You will always be remembered with love.
Special thanks to the Curry Senior Center, St. Anthony’s, GLIDE, and all the organizations that serve the Tenderloin community in San Francisco. We sincerely appreciate your dedication to the residents of the Tenderloin and for being a positive force in Jack’s life.
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