Michael “Mike” Dale Cochrum

Michael (Mike) Dale Cochrum

04/04/1947 – 09/17/2025

In Loving Memory of Michael (Mike) Dale Cochrum

April 4, 1947 – September 17, 2025

Michael “Mike” Dale Cochrum, born on April 4th,1947, in St. Louis, Missouri, rejoined his Lord and saviour on September 17th, 2025 in Tampa, Florida. He was 78 years old.

Mike was a man of quiet compassion, a gentle and generous spirit, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved. Whether sharing stories from his youth over a beer, watching his Saints play, or simply sitting in companionable silence, his presence was a comfort.

It was a full and meaningful life. Over the years, Mike lived in several states and even out of the country. He built a successful career as a computer programmer, but his proudest role was that of a wonderful and loving father. His greatest accomplishments were his children, Richard and Candace (Candie) Cochrum, and stepchildren Laura Keen and Luke Lyons. Through them, his patient love and influence will be remembered most.

While serving his country in the Vietnam War, Mike graduated from California State University of Sacramento with his Bachelors of Science in Business Administration in 1975. After serving, Mike embraced life’s simple pleasures outside of his career – he was an avid fisherman, happiest with a rod in hand and the sun on his back. There were many fishing trips with good friends over the years! He loved playing cards, where his sharp wit and good-natured humor always made for memorable nights. And he had a love of all things Blues, particularly for BB King.

Marked not by grand gestures, but by the quiet, consistent acts of love and kindness that defined his character, Mike’s life will be revered. He will be of course deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His beautiful memory will live on in the stories we tell, the lessons he taught, and the love he always gave so freely. Like he said: “You aren’t truly gone until you’re forgotten.” We will never forget, but miss him deeply.

Mike was preceded in death by his beloved grandfather who helped raise him, as well as his forever cherished daughter, Candie.

~Deuces are wild, Mike.~

“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in Me will never die.” (John 11:25-26)