John Lewis Cochran, Sr., 83, of Punxsutawney (formerly of Home), passed away peacefully at his son’s home on Monday, January 19, 2026.
He was born at home in Indiana on March 2, 1942, a son of the late Harry Cochran and Beryl (Rummel) Cochran.
In his early years, John worked as a farmer and a coalminer. He later began working for Rayne Township and remained in that job up until a few years ago. He was a hardworking man that always put forth his best to make sure the job was done right.
John had a deep love for animals, particularly for horses. In August, his family gifted him a beautiful new horse and he named it Babe. He enjoyed sitting watching the horse graze in the field, it brought him such pride, peace and contentment. In keeping with his love of animals, he also had two goats named Dottie and Wayne, a donkey named Moses and his special yellow lab named Sadie.
Recently, he returned from a memorable trip with his family through the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, where the beauty of the rolling hills and peaceful scenery reflected the life he lived, rooted in nature, family and gratitude.
Above all, he loved spending time with his family, especially the grandchildren and great grandchildren.
He is survived by four children, John L. (Robin) Cochran, Jr of Punxsutawney, Frank (Tina) Cochran of Armagh, Beverly Cochran of Georgia and Charlene (Jim) Elliott of Lucerne Mines, former daughter in-law, Karen (George) James of Home; sixteen grandchildren, Kaula (Justin) Senter, Dawn (Chris) Good, Ryan Cochran, Frank (Gina) Cochran, Amber Cochran, Tyler Cochran, Mindie Foose and fiancé Brian Coalfield, Sandy (Martel Barnett) Foose, Nickol (David) Bowman, Jimmy (Crystal) Elliott, Jonathan Elliott, Brandon (Brandi) Biesinger, Katelyn (Chris) Maze, Mandy (Don) Moccio, Shane Biesinger and fiancé Jodi Tyler; thirty two great grandchildren.
Preceded in death by his parents, two infant son’s William Cochran and baby Cochran, two granddaughter’s Frenchesca Cochran and Stephanie Elliott, Bowman James, one brother, Harry E. Cochran Sr.; three sisters, Marie E. Wagner, Stella Mano and Shirley Miller.
There will be no visitation. Arrangements entrusted to Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc., Punxsutawney.
A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Perry Township Fire Company.
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