Joe Cochran, aged 68, of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly at his home on the evening of October 22, 2023.
Joe was a lifelong resident of Green Valley, born on November 21, 1954, in Mt. Vernon, Ohio, to the late Paul and Arlene Cochran (Wilmotte). He graduated from Fredericktown High School in 1972 and went on to attend The Ohio State University, fostering a lifelong love for horticulture.
Joe initially owned Scarborough Hardware in Fredericktown, Ohio, before fully delving into his passion for horticulture. He worked for the Knox County Extension Office and later became the Director of the Secrest Arboretum at The Ohio State University, where his expertise as an Avid Master Gardener flourished. Joe retired in 2019, marking a distinguished career filled with a genuine love for nature and mentorship.
He leaves behind his cherished family; his only son, Jonathan, and daughter-in-law, Alison, who blessed him with three adored grandchildren, Justin, Kylie, and Lindsey. Joe is also survived by his two brothers, Chris (Tammie) Cochran and Kevin (Tami) Cochran, and sister, Cathy Bonner, and his beloved nieces and nephews; Evan (Molly) Cochran, Haley Cochran, Cassie (James) Day, Noah Cochran, John Bonner, Paul Bonner and great nieces Wynn Cochran and Penelope Day. His life was enriched by the companionship of Mary Wishau (Poole), with whom he shared 18 loving years. While they never exchanged marital vows, Mary cherished being referred to as Joe’s wife, a testament to the enduring bond they shared. Through this union, Mary’s children Elizabeth (James) Dunkleberger and Joe (Melissa) Cooper, along with grandchildren Henry, Grace, and Hannah Dunkleberger, Jameson, and Mollie Cooper, brought great joy and fulfillment to Joe’s life.
Joe was a proud member of the Fredericktown Masonic Thrall Lodge #170, where his camaraderie and dedication to the principles of Freemasonry were greatly valued. His involvement in the Lodge was a reflection of his commitment to community and brotherhood, aspects that enriched his life and those around him.
Joe’s love for exploration led to many memorable travels throughout the country, including cherished extended trips with Jonathan during his younger years, and a recent unforgettable three-week journey across the country with Mary and his grandchildren.
He will forever be cherished for his boundless generosity and readiness to go the extra mile for anyone in need, embodying a selfless spirit that touched the hearts of all who knew him.
The family will welcome friends and loved ones for calling hours at Snyder’s Funeral Home Lasater Chapel, Mt. Vernon, Ohio, on November 2, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. A Masonic service will follow, beginning at 6 PM, provided by the Fredericktown Masonic-Thrall Lodge #170 F. & A.M.
In lieu of flowers, the family would be grateful for donations towards a memorial bench to be placed at Secrest Arboretum to honor Joe’s legacy. GoFundMe donations to the memorial bench: https://gofund.me/9a64f19d
The Snyder Funeral Home – Lasater Chapel is honored to serve the family of Joe Cochran.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Home – Lasater Chapel
Website: snyderfuneralhomes.com