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.