April 17, 2019

Ida Cohen, the co-founder of Meyda Tiffany, passed away at the age of 99 last week. In 1939, she married Meyer Cohen, and Meyda Tiffany was founded in 1974 when Meyer was asked by Ida to create a stained-glass window in their kitchen. What began as a hobby evolved into a leading manufacturer of custom and decorative lighting. Meyer plus Ida equals Meyda—creating the company name, which is now recognized on national and international levels.

Ida was a hardworking and driven business woman with a strong work ethic and a no-nonsense attitude. She was the originator and current owner of the Nutty Putty Mini Golf in Old Forge, New York, and along with her husband Meyer, formerly owned and operated Quickie Steak Packing Co. in Utica, New York.

She is survived by a sister and three children, including Robert Cohen who is president of Meyda. She is also survived by six grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Husband Meyer passed away in 2000.

With many years of designing, engineering and manufacturing expertise, Meyda creates chandeliers, pendants, sconces, outdoor lighting and stained-glass fixtures, lamps and windows.