Jean was born on October 27, 1940, in Mandan, N.D., the son of Thomas Edward, Sr., and Ella Jean (Lewis) Cogdall. He was a 1958 graduate of Crestwood High School in Cresco, IA, a 1963 graduate of Winona State University, and also earned his Master’s Degree from Winona State University in 1970. Jean married Judy Lukes on August 1, 1966, in Protivin, IA. He became a member of the Masonic Lodge in 1967. He was a college professor for over 20 years and retired from Sauk Valley Community College, where he was an electronics instructor. He had an interest in scooters, motorcycles, Volkswagens, and ham radio.
He is survived by his wife, Judy Cogdall of Sterling; his son, Chris Cogdall of Sterling; five nephews, Curt Lukes of North Liberty, IA, Tom Lukes of Waterloo, IA, Tom, III (Betsy) Cogdall of Milwaukee, WI, Michael (Kate) Cogdall of Santa Rosa Beach, FL, and David (Paige) Cogdall of Tucson, AZ; one niece, Jennifer (Steven) Sandifar of Winchester, IN; several great nieces and great nephews; two sisters-in-law, Sharon Lukes of Waterloo, IA and Deanna Cogdall of Algona, IA; and special friends, Harold Dodd, III of Rock Falls and Kathy Clayton of Sterling.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Thomas E. Cogdall, II; and one brother-in-law, Steven Lukes.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at the McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls. A memorial service, including a Masonic service, will follow at 11:00 AM at the funeral home with Pastor Ken Zuithoff officiating.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.
