Cosgrove, Dean of American Insurance Journalists, Dies at 93

Acknowledged by many as the dean of American insurance journalists, John N. Cosgrove, 93, passed away on Aug. 3, 2005.

Cosgrove served as a former editor of the National Underwriter magazine, authored the book “Grey Days and Gold,” a history of the Atlantic Mutual Insurance Company, and the book, “The Fireman’s War,” the story of the London Blitz during World War II. He also wrote an industry textbook, “Competition in Insurance Marketing.”

In 1976 he received an honorary doctorate in humane letters from the College of Insurance and in 1994 he was awarded the Golden Torch Award by the Insurance Marketing Communications Association (IMCA) for his outstanding contributions to insurance communications.

Born in Savannah, Ga., Cosgrove was raised in Brooklyn, N.Y., and moved to the Jersey Shore in 1948, living in Monmouth Beach, Long Branch and most recently Oceanport.

Cosgrove was educated at New York University School of Journalism where he was campus correspondent for several New York newspapers. He became a sports reporter for the Brooklyn Eagle and later entered the insurance business. His career spanned over 44 years as a newsman, editor, author, lecturer, cartoonist, and company executive. He was also a recorded, concert-quality singer whose basso profundo voice made him a sought-after industry speaker.

He has been described by his peers as knowledgeable in many fields, brilliant, warm, humorous, self-effacing, and strong minded. His family and friends will always remember his keen wit and loving ways.

Cosgrove was predeceased by his wife, Anne Fredrickson, and his daughter MaryEllen Signorelli. He is survived by his son John C. Cosgrove and his wife Judith of West Hartford, Conn., and his daughter, Jill Tober of Monmouth Beach.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory are requested to: Xaverian High School, 7100 Shore Road, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11209.