Coburn “Coby” Ellingwood passed away peacefully at his home on February 3 at the age of 98 with Trish his beloved wife of 37 years by his side. Coby was born in Bridgton Maine on August 12, 1926 and grew up in Newton, Massachusetts. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps during World War II and was honorably discharged. Coby was proud of his service and throughout the years, supported our troops and enjoyed sharing stories of his service with the children Trish taught and worked with throughout the years.
After the war, Coby was a creator of specialized tools, a salesman and distributor of small tools, sold automobiles and in the last 35 years he was a travel agent in Rye and Purchase. His work as a travel agent gave Coby and Trish the opportunity to travel much of the United States and the world which included Ukraine and Russia and most of Europe, China, Australia, New Zealand and a safari in Tanzania. There was always an airline ticket on the desk for the next trip.
It was in Maine that he met the love of his life, Trish (Coyle) Ellingwood. They were married in a small village at the foot of the Alps in Bavaria, Germany in August 1987.
Coby was an active and devoted member of the Rye Rotary where for over 25 years he organized an annual trip to Bermuda for the Rotary Clubs of district 7230. For 30+ years the highlight of Coby’s day was being a member of the OBIB (old boys in back) for daily breakfast at Poppy’s Café in Rye NY. Coby lived a life full of enthusiasm, optimism and joy. He was quick to laugh and make others smile wherever he was. Everyone felt better after meeting with Coby and being in his presence.
Donations may be made to Rye Rotary Foundation PO Box 404.
Celebration of Life to be at Sacred Heart Greenwich at a date to be determined.
Rye, NY 10580
United States
WHY JOIN ROTARY
A founding principle of Rotary was to meet periodically to enjoy camaraderie and enlarge one’s circle of business and professional acquaintances. As the oldest service club in the world, Rotary club members represent a cross-section of the community’s owners, executives, managers, political leaders, and professionals - people who make decisions and influence policy.
With more than 35,000 clubs in over 220 countries & geographical areas, Rotarians gain an understanding of humanitarian issues through international service projects and exchange programs. One of Rotary’s highest objectives is to build goodwill and peace throughout the world.
Rotary was founded on fellowship, an ideal that remains a major attraction of membership to- day. Club members enjoy the camaraderie with like-minded professionals, and club projects offer additional opportunities to develop enduring friendships. Rotary club members who travel have friendly contacts in almost every city in the world.
Weekly Rotary club programs keep members informed about what is taking place in the community, nation, and world and motivated to make a difference.
Rotary sponsors some of the world’s largest youth exchange, educational exchange, and scholarship programs. Rotary clubs provide innovative training opportunities and mentoring for young leaders and involve family members in a wide range of social and service activities.
Social activities give Rotarians a chance to let loose and have fun. Every Rotary club and district hosts parties and activities that offer diversions from today’s demanding professional and personal schedules. Conferences, conventions, assemblies, and social events provide entertainment as well as Rotary information, education, and service.
Encouraging high ethical standards in one’s profession and respect for all worthy vocations has been a hallmark of Rotary from its earliest days. In their business and professional lives, Rotarians abide by The Four-Way Test:. Of the things we think, say or do:
1) Is it the TRUTH?
2) Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3) Will it BUILD GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4) Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
Rotary is an organization of successful professionals. Team building, fundraising, public speaking, planning, organization, and communication are just a sampling of the leadership skills that club members can exercise and enhance. Being a Rotary leader provides further experience in learning how to motivate, inspire, and guide others.
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