On Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2015, officers of the Menlo Park Police Department and Menlo Park Fire Protection District responded to the 1400 block of Mills Street for the report of an unresponsive male. Upon arrival, Andrew Cohen, a 75 year old male of Menlo Park and former City of Menlo Park mayor and councilmember was pronounced deceased at 5:25 p.m.. The San Mateo County Coroner's office confirmed no foul play and that Mr. Cohen passed from natural causes.

Mr. Cohen graduated with a Law degree from Stanford University and had a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Dartmouth College. He served on the Menlo Park City Council from 2004-2012, during which time he made numerous contributions to city matters with his compassion and influence. He was a former judge who served on the California Workers' Compensation Appeals Board and was the presiding judge on the board from 1994-2003.

The City Council and staff have fond memories of Andy. Mayor Rich Cline stated, "I've known Andy since 2006, when we first met for a walk at Bayfront Park to discuss the city's future. He was then and always remained a gentleman with great curiosity and a big heart. He cared deeply about helping those in need and he walked the walk. He led our city to enact many policies that helped folks keep their homes when the market collapsed in 2008 and went above and beyond to seek common ground. This is a very sad day for many of us who grew to know Andy. We are a better community for having had Andy as one of our leaders. Our heartfelt sympathies for Andy's family during this difficult loss."

City officials are in communication with Mr. Cohen’s family and will announce memorial service information as it becomes available.