Willis Cochran

Willis E Cochran, 88, of Fargo, ND, formerly of Page, ND, died Saturday, February 2, 2008, at the VA Hospital in Fargo, ND. Willis Cochran was born on March 7, 1919, in Kempton, ND, the son of William and Mary Lois Cochran. Willis moved to Page, when he was five and attended school there. On May 20, 1941, Willis married Dolores Farrell in Page, ND, at the St. James Catholic Church. They made their home in Page, where Willis worked as a farm mechanic at the International Dealership. Willis went into the Army in 1944, and was stationed in the Philippine Islands during World War II. Willis thoroughly enjoyed serving his community by volunteering in both the Fire Department and Ambulance Service. Willis was also a referee for thirty years in area basketball games working three nights a week in addition to his full time job. In 1999, Willis was inducted into the “Referee Hall of Fame”. Willis was a Boy Scout Leader, a lifetime member of the American Legion 154, a Valley City Eagles member, and donated over 15 gallons of blood to United Blood Services. Willis will be deeply missed by Dolores, his wife of 66 years; children, Larry (Dot) Waverly, TN; deceased daughter, Janet (John) Froelich, Valley City, ND; Nancy (Ted) Krump, Deer Creek, MN; Mary (Phil) Miller, Brooklyn Park, MN; Wayne (Denise) Mandan ND; Bruce (Sheryl), Lebanon, MO; Dick (Cheryl) Carthage MO; Sue (Korsgarden) Brooklyn Park MN; and Carol (Ken) Harms, Prairie Rose, ND. Willis took great pleasure in his 29 grandchildren and 48 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his infant sister; parents; brother, Ronald; and daughter, Janet. Willis deeply loved his wife and family. Willis was so proud of all of his children. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, hunting, shaking dice, playing cards, dancing and spending time with friends. We will miss his love, laughter, and stories. He shared his garden produce and beautiful flowers with many friends. Willis was selected to go on the WWII Washington DC Veterans trip but was unable to go due to health reasons. He thoroughly enjoyed the TV coverage and newspaper coverage of others who had made the trip. Visitation: 5:00 to 7:00 pm, on Wednesday, Feb 6, 2008, at Hanson Runsvold located at 215 7th St South in Fargo with a Prayer Service at 7:00 pm. Funeral Mass: 10:00 am, Thursday, Feb 7, 2008, at St. Anne & Joachim Catholic Church, 5202 25th St. South, Fargo, ND