Obituary of Michael Cochran

Michael P. Cochran, 63, of Doniphan, Missouri, died Friday, August 3, 2012, at his residence in Doniphan. He was born March 4, 1949, in San Pedro, California, to Annabelle (Dowdy) Cochran. Mr. Cochran was a 1967 graduate of Doniphan High School and, soon after graduation, entered into the United States Army. While serving in Vietnam, he became a decorated war veteran earning the Bronze Star with Valor, Commendation with Valor, Combat Infantry Badge and the Purple Heart. After his service in Vietnam, he served six months in Germany. He completed his military career in Fort Benning, Georgia, as a Hand Grenade Instructor. Upon returning home he became a Water Patrolman for the state of Missouri, monitoring safety on Current River. After a period of time, he went to work for the city of Doniphan as a police officer. He soon ran successfully as the Chief of Police for the city and held the position for a number of years. During that tenure, he was instrumental in creating the Doniphan Rescue Squad, being in charge of the Doniphan Fire Department and fire investigations. Eventually, he became employed with the Missouri Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs. When the opportunity presented itself, he successfully ran for Sheriff of Ripley County and served in that capacity until retirement. All in all, Mr. Cochran spent over 35 years in law-enforcement. He was a member of the Lions Club, Jaycee's, Missouri State Sheriff's Association, Doniphan V.F.W. Post #3485 and the Ponder Church of Christ. Mr. Cochran enjoyed hunting, four-wheeling, antiques, classic cars and serving his community. He had an extraordinary love for Current River and he especially took pleasure in being at his river cabin at Yellow Bank. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren. On November 24, 1971, he was married to Karen (Holland) in Doniphan, Missouri, and she survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Cristy Michelle Cannon of Doniphan and Cindy Dawn Barnett and husband, Jim, of Festus, Missouri; one uncle, Don Dowdy of Sarasota, Florida; and four grandchildren, Caden M. Cannon, Abby N. Cannon, Livia M. Barnett and Falyn A. Barnett. He was preceded in death by his mother and step-father, Annabelle Spencer and Roger Spencer. Visitation for Mr. Cochran will be held Tuesday evening, August 7, 2012, from 5-8 p.m. in the Edwards Funeral Home in Doniphan. Funeral services will start Wednesday morning, August 8, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Wade Rogers officiating. Burial will follow in the Doniphan City Cemetery with full Military Honors. Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army.