George Joseph Cochran

George Joseph Cochran, Jr., 89, of Cleveland, MO passed away on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at Crown Care Center in Harrisonville, MO. A visitation was held on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO. George was laid to rest at West Union Cemetery in Cleveland, MO. Memorial contributions may be made to One Community Hospice, Harrisonville, MO.
George was born May 5, 1934 to George Joseph Sr and Opal Mae (Manning) Cochran in Kansas City, MO. George married the love of his life, Ellen Juanita (Nita) Burch, on January 16, 1957, and together they had 6 children. He spent his career as a stone mason, creating some of the most beautiful pieces, including the fireplace at their home. He could create almost anything, though, as he loved woodworking and making things, including: benches, kids chairs, tables, toys, potato bins, towel holders, kerosene lamp holders, chests, and the list goes on. He enjoyed drawing, mostly people and faces, but would try his hand at other things, too. In his younger days, he even enjoyed writing poetry. He later worked as a custodian for Cass Midway school district, retiring from there.
George was forever an old soul, walking around museums and trade fairs, and taking in the history. He loved listening to the old classic country artists and strumming his guitar. He had a passion for fishing, but preferred to use a cane pole. He enjoyed time with his family and friends and will be missed by those who knew him.
George is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Ellen Cochran; his son, George Earl Cochran; his sister, Audrey Cochran; and his brother, Mickey Cochran. He is survived by his sons: Mitchell (Karen K.) Cochran, Darryel (Karen D.) Cochran, and Joel Cochran; his daughters: Marie (Craig) Holcomb and Sandra Bartlett; 15 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; his brothers: Carl (Sheila) Cochran and Calvin Cochran; his sisters: Gereldine Richards, Jenny (Jim) Thienes, and Susan Cowan; and many extended family and friends.