Richard A. “Skip” Cochran, 83, of Ft. Wayne, Indiana, passed Sunday. August 10, 2025 at the Bethlehem Woods Nursing and Rehabilitation of Ft. Wayne, Indiana, where he had resided for 7 years.
Skip was born on May 6, 1942, in Kosciusko County to John A. and Edna M. (Marsh) Cochran. He graduated from Warsaw High School in 1959 and proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1964 to 1966. For 38 years, Skip dedicated his career to the City of Fort Wayne, working in Animal Rescue as a Humane Officer—a role that perfectly matched his deep love for animals.
He was known for collecting all kinds of things, and enjoyed thrift store finds. Mealtimes with family were a highlight to him—especially dessert, which he always made sure to bring in abundance, more than anyone could ever finish.
He shared a close bond with his brother Bill and his sister Charlotte, and his warmth and kindness made him a favorite among the staff and residents at the nursing home. Skip had a special place in his heart for the city of Fort Wayne, a community he served and cherished throughout his life.
He is survived by his nieces and nephews Leisa, Laura, Linda, Patty, John, Ed, Bobbi, Ross, Rod, and Chris; and a brother-in-law Dan Stine.
Skip was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Ruth Hartzell and Charlotte Stine, and brothers Chuck, George, Ed, and Bill Cochran.
The funeral service will be held at 11:00 am, Thursday, August 14, 2025 at King Memorial Home 101 North Tucker Street Mentone, Indiana with Minister Kent Jones officiating
The interment will take place following the service in the Harrison Center Cemetery, Etna Green, Indiana.
Visitation hours will be held from 10 am to 11 am, Thursday, August 14, 2025 at King Memorial Home, Mentone, Indiana.
Memorial contributions can be made in his memory to Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County 1048 325 E, Pierceton, IN 46562 or to the Wounded Warrior Project P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.
