Frederick William Cogswell

Frederick William Cogswell (83) of Ellicott City, Maryland passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends at Gilchrist Center Howard County on April 25, 2026. He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Evelyn Cogswell; loving children, Julie Ocampo (Michael) and Kimberly Willard (Robin); step-children Beth Holden (Pat) and Hal Sachs (Amy); siblings, Sandra Bowman (Tom, decd.) and Donald Cogswell (Pat); dear grandchildren, Ryan Holden, Kate Morrison (Sean), Justin Holden, Adam Sachs (Miranda), Grace Willard, Stephanie Sachs, Jonathan Ocampo, Alexander Willard, and Andrew Willard; great-grandchild, Elliott Sachs; and numerous nieces and nephews. Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy James Cogswell and Frederick A. Cogswell; and grandson, Derek Holden.

Born in Washington, D.C., Fred graduated from Bladensburg High School (1960) and Towson State Teachers College (1964). He married Barbara Sanalitro and lived in Reisterstown and Hampstead with their two children, Julie and Kim.

Fred began his career in Baltimore County Public Schools in 1964, working as a social studies teacher, department chair, assistant principal, and principal for 32 years. With an unwavering commitment to public schools, he served schoolchildren at many BCPS schools including Old Court Jr. High, Deer Park Jr. High, Franklin High School, Owings Mills High School, Kenwood High School, and Lansdowne High School. Upon retirement (1996) Fred moved to the west coast to continue his career as an educator in Bellevue, WA. There, he served as a principal and then supervisor of the English Language Learners’ program. Returning to Maryland, he worked for the College Board and taught education courses at his alma mater, Towson University. No matter the school or title, Fred was recognized as a consummate educator of both students and teachers.

Fred met his wife, Evelyn, when they were both working at Franklin High School. Steadfast in his faith, Fred worshipped in various churches, often seeking active, urban faith communities. He held various leadership positions such as Deacon and Stephen’s Minister. He initiated an online prayer group which has met weekly for many years.

Fred always had a love for travel. He camped across the United States multiple times with a pop-up camper in tow, introducing his students and his family to the expanse of the country and the beauty of the National Parks. Later, Fred and Evelyn toured the world, enjoying Europe, Africa and Asia. While traveling, his favorite activities included scuba diving, sight-seeing, photography, safaris, and walks on the beach.

A memorial service is being planned and will be posted shortly.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Franklin High School, 12000 Reisterstown Road, Reisterstown, MD 21136 for the Cogswell Family Scholarship. Established in 2022, the scholarship annually recognizes Franklin High School graduates who will attend college as first generation students.