Joseph Christian Cochran

Joseph Christian Cochran, 82, of Princeton, passed away Friday, May 30, 2025 at Deaconess Gibson Hospital in Princeton. He was born March 11, 1943 in Princeton to Ralph and Lorraine (Christian) Cochran. After graduating with the PCHS Class of 1961, Joe joined the United States Navy where he served as a radioman in Key West, Florida and Norfolk, Virginia. Returning home, he went on to work as a conductor for Southern Railroad. Following retirement, he worked for MRK Equipment for many years. Joe was a devout lifetime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. In recent years, he was able to see his idea of a Rosary Garden there come to life. He was also a 4th degree Knight of Columbus and served as the Grand Knight from 2011 to 2013. A pillar of the community, Joe never met a stranger and was a friend to everyone.

Joe is survived by his children, Joe D. Cochran, Christa King and Tyrone “Ty” Cochran (Shellia); grandchildren, Abby, Mackenzie, Morgan, Macie (Bobby), Daniel, Taylor (Kinnen) and Trenton; great grandchildren, Rowen, Scarlett and Henry; godson, Mike Pflug; several nieces and nephews; and lifelong best friend, Buck Whitten. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 62 years, Lona Gayle Cochran who passed in January 2024; daughter, Lorri Cochran; and sister, Mary Jane Embree.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 pm on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Princeton with Father Bernie Etienne and Father Gary Kaiser celebrants. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Princeton. Military Rites will be provided by Retired Military Veterans. Friends may visit from 11 am until 2 pm Wednesday at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church Rosary Garden, 410 S. Race St., Princeton, IN 47670. Envelopes will be available at the church.

To offer condolences or share memories visit www.ColvinFuneralHome.com. Colvin Funeral Home is honored to serve the Cochran family.

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