Our Family
 Genealogy Pages

John Charles Cochran

Male - 2023


Personal Information    |    Event Map    |    All    |    PDF

  • Name John Charles Cochran 
    Gender Male 
    Death 7 Aug 2023  San Diego, San Diego, California, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    • John Charles Cochran of San Diego, CA , peacefully passed away at his home on the morning of August 7, 2023. John was 81 years old. His life stood as a true testament to love, family, giving back to his community, and travel.

      Educated at Gilman School in Baltimore, with early admission to Princeton, John's insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to earn a degree in Economics from Princeton University. He further enriched his academic journey by obtaining an MBA from Columbia University in New York. John's professional odyssey began in 1968, marked by impactful stints at companies such as Armour Dial, Handyman, and the County of San Diego.

      In 1981, John's path intertwined with Sue Lasbury's at a Sierra Club gathering, sparking a lifelong partnership. After a 14-year courtship, they exchanged vows in 1995, and their love story unfurled against the backdrop of San Diego.

      His unwavering commitment to volunteerism was a hallmark of his character, evident in his roles as a San Diego Opera docent, a supernumerary in 39 operas, a Midway docent, and a devoted volunteer at the San Diego Zoo's fundraising events. Driven by a love for exploration, John and Sue embarked on journeys to distant and nearby corners, including cherished biannual trips to New York City. There, they immersed themselves in the latest offerings of Broadway, opera, ballet at Lincoln Center, and the rich artistic tapestry of institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Whitney, the Guggenheim, and beyond. His fascination with Alexander Hamilton, ignited by witnessing the original cast of "Hamilton," led them to traverse historic sites in Manhattan and Washington, D.C.

      A man of remarkable intellect, John reveled in delving into the realms of politics and current events. His agile mind eagerly absorbed knowledge, and he remained well-informed about the ever-evolving world around him. He also derived immense joy from simple pleasures, from watching Padres baseball to closely following the life of Queen Elizabeth II and the coronation of King Charles III.

      Affectionately known as "Kupkake," John's heart embraced his family without bounds. His endless generosity and care touched all who knew him, and his unwavering pride in his community was an inspiration. John Cochran will forever be etched in memory as a quintessential gentleman, exuding kindness to all he encountered. His love and influence will continue to enrich our lives, and his memory will forever inspire us to embrace life's adventures with the same passion and grace he so exquisitely embodied.

      Survived by his beloved soulmate of 42 years, Sue Lasbury, John also leaves behind his sister Linda Gillard (husband: Lee), two children, and their spouses: Christine Taylor (husband: J.T.) of Austin, TX , and Don Darrow (wife: Diane) of San Diego, CA . John's legacy radiates through his two cherished grandchildren, James and Drake Taylor. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, John Andrews Cochran and Virginia Cook Cochran.

      A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. John's final resting place will be at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John's memory to San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance or the USS Midway Museum. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated caregivers from Hospice by the Sea for their exceptional care.

      Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Aug. 20, 2023
    Person ID I880  Lasbury Family
    Last Modified 26 Apr 2024 

    Father John Charles Cochran 
    Mother Virginia Wood 
    Family ID F1404  Group Sheet  |  Family Chart

    Wife Martha Sue Lasbury 
    Family ID F307  Group Sheet  |  Family Chart
    Last Modified 26 Apr 2024 

  • Event Map
    Link to Google MapsDeath - 7 Aug 2023 - San Diego, San Diego, California, USA Link to Google Earth
     = Link to Google Earth