George J. Cotliar, a significant figure in journalism and the former managing editor of the Los Angeles Times, has passed away at the age of 94. His daughter, Sharon Cotliar-Zweifach, shared the news that he died peacefully in his sleep on a recent Monday morning at his home in Newport Beach.
Throughout his remarkable 40-year career with the Times, Cotliar dedicated 19 years as managing editor. His passion for journalism was evident, with his children acknowledging the profound influence he had as both a father and a mentor in the industry. “Our dad’s first love was journalism,” Cotliar-Zweifach stated. “He set the bar high in terms of honesty, integrity, and treating people with respect.”
A Journey from the Bronx to the Headlines
Brought into the world on January 16, 1932, in the Bronx to Russian immigrants, Cotliar’s family relocated to Los Angeles when he was just five. He often humorously referred to their new neighborhood as the “slums of Beverly Hills.” His academic journey included attending Beverly Hills High School and eventually earning a degree in journalism from Cal State Los Angeles.
His career began at various local newspapers before he discovered a job opening at the Los Angeles Times. He took a financial hit by accepting a $13-per-week pay cut to pursue his dream of working at the esteemed publication—a dream he had harbored since delivering newspapers at just 11 years old. Starting as a reporter for the Westside section, he advanced quickly through the ranks, becoming editor of the suburban section within a year and taking on roles such as copy chief and managing editor for the Orange County edition before achieving his ultimate goal.
Leaving a Lasting Impact on Journalism
During Cotliar’s tenure as managing editor, the Los Angeles Times saw tremendous success, garnering ten Pulitzer Prizes along with various other honors. Former Times National Editor Roger Smith praised Cotliar’s commitment to delivering top-notch journalism daily, highlighting his understanding of the city and county.
Known for a sharp intellect and an impressive recall on election nights, Cotliar balanced a deep love for journalism with an enthusiastic spirit for college basketball. His vibrant personality also included a flair for dramatic moments, such as harshly criticizing the mayor during heated conversations or nearly breaking his typewriter in a fit of passion, all of which made working with him an unforgettable experience.
George Cotliar is survived by his son, David Cotliar, his daughter, Sharon Cotliar-Zweifach, and two grandchildren. His late wife, Pearl Ruth Gottlieb, passed away in December 2011. Cotliar’s legacy in journalism and the lives he touched both personally and professionally continue to resonate across the media landscape.
