Sanford Coren, 90

CRANSTON, R.I. – Sanford F. Coren died peacefully at home on July 20, surrounded by his family. He was the beloved husband of Esther (Fischer) Coren; the couple celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in June.

Born in Providence, a son of the late Barney and Sarah (Frank) Coren, his first five years were spent in New York before his family moved back to Providence. He then moved to Dorchester, Massachusetts in 1940, where he graduated in from Boston English High School in 1948. After school he was a Korean War veteran, and shortly after leaving the service he met his lifelong partner, Esther, in Providence.

Sanford worked in a variety of industries, including as a salesperson for Gold Bond Mattress and selling men’s accessories for Shield and R.A. Hickok. Sanford owned two Singer stores, and Vacuum & Phones Plus on Rolfe Street in Cranston. He repaired sewing machines and vacuums at All Brands in Cranston for many years, before retiring at 80.

Sanford and Esther hosted their extended family for the Jewish holidays for many spirited meals in their home. Everyone looked forward to their brisket and latkes, but the star of those meals were the potato knishes made by Sanford.

A member of Temple Beth-El, Sanford had a lifelong love of reading, history, Providence College basketball, the New England Patriots, trains, cooking and his family.

Sanford is survived by his wife, Esther; son Richard Coren and wife, Carrie, of Cranston; daughter Cheryl Botwick and husband, Steven, of East Greenwich. His grandchildren were his pride and joy: granddaughter Blake Coren; grandson Jeffrey Botwick and his wife Laurel Greenfield; and grandson Zachary Botwick. He is also survived by his sister, Donna Kornblatt of Melville, New York; and many nieces and nephews who will miss Sanford.

Contributions in his memory may be made to the Temple Beth-El of Providence, Rhode Island.