Auburn native John D. Cogar, a former member of the U.S. bobsled team, died last week near his longtime Adirondack home. He was 76.
New York State Police reported that Cogar drowned while swimming near his Saranac Lake residence on August 21.
Following news of his death, the Citizen published a story on Cogar, who was a decorated athlete from an early age, competing in football and track and field at East High School in the 1960s. He was inducted into the Auburn High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007.
After high school, Cogar played football at the University of Rochester and pursued veterinary studies at Cornell University. He eventually settled in Saranac Lake, where he ran his own veterinary practice, coached high school track, and developed a passion for bobsledding.
His dedication to the sport led him to join the U.S. national bobsled team six times. He competed in world championships in 1978, 1983, and 1985, and participated in Olympic trials for two- and four-man events in 1980, 1983, and 1985.
Cogar’s life reflected his commitment to athletics, community, and professional excellence, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew him both on and off the track.
Funeral information for Mr. Cogar can be found here.
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