June 3, 2025
LA JOLLA—Donald Cohn, San Diego real estate developer and community builder, died May 2, 2025, in La Jolla, California, at the age of 93. A generous supporter of the arts, education, and science, he served on the Salk Institute’s Board of Trustees from 2014 to 2022.
“All of us at the Salk Institute were deeply saddened to learn of Don’s passing,” says Salk President Gerald Joyce. “Don was a valued member of our Board of Trustees and a true friend and champion of our mission. His thoughtful guidance, business acumen, and unwavering belief in the power of scientific discovery left a lasting impact on our Institute. Together with his wife, Karen, Don’s generous support of our annual Symphony at Salk gala helped bring our community together in celebration of science and the arts. We are profoundly grateful for his many contributions and will remember him with great respect and admiration.”
Cohn established his business career in San Diego in 1961. He was active in the development of thousands of residential units, both as a builder and investor. He founded Data Quick Information Systems in 1980, where he served as CEO and managed its growth to become the largest real estate information provider in the United States until its sale to Acxiom Corporation. He later founded and served as CEO of DTS Communications. In more recent years, Cohn invested in other business ventures and continued to manage his real estate portfolio.
In addition to contributing to the Salk Institute with time, expertise, and philanthropic gifts, he and Karen supported the Old Globe Theatre, KPBS, the San Diego Symphony, the Humane Society of San Diego, and the Museum of Contemporary Art of San Diego.
Cohn is survived by his wife, Karen, his son, Jon, his stepson and stepdaughter-in-law, Matt and Karen Sumek, and granddaughter Tessa Sumek, along with his niece and nephews, Mark and Steve Cohn and Alexis Lewin. A private service is planned for June.
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Unlocking the secrets of life itself is the driving force behind the Salk Institute. Our team of world-class, award-winning scientists pushes the boundaries of knowledge in areas such as neuroscience, cancer research, aging, immunobiology, plant biology, computational biology and more. Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the face of any challenge.
