Patricia (Pat) Cochran passed away peacefully surrounded by family Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at Goldfinch Estates in Fairmont. She was born on April 6, 1935, at a farmhouse near Lakota, Iowa and, at the age of three, moved with her family to a farm in Swea City, Iowa. Pat was the beloved daughter of Alice and Burt Patterson, who took her everywhere and instilled in her a deep love for family, nature, and life’s little joys.

Growing up, Pat enjoyed the company of farm animals, including cats, dogs, and sheep. She had fond memories of fishing trips with her parents, where her mother would pack a picnic basket for lunch. One of her favorite childhood pastimes was playing school in the corn crib.

In her late teens, Pat met Roger Cochran, and they quickly formed a strong bond, enjoying outings to Fox Lake Ballroom, movie theaters, and roller-skating rinks. After attending Mankato Technical College in 1953, Pat moved to Fairmont, where she and Roger were married at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in 1955.

Pat’s career began at the Fairmont Telephone Company, but soon after, she became a dedicated mother to three children: Gary, Debbie, and Greg. Pat was persistent in having her children learn and experience things she didn’t do as a child, like ice skating, swimming and music lessons. Pat and Roger instilled the importance of family adventures such as road trips and camping.

She also worked in retail, spending time at Buttrey’s, Miller Fashions, Lady X Fashion, and My Favorite Things. Through these jobs, she developed lasting friendships and became a familiar face in the local retail community. Throughout her life, Pat was known for her impeccable sense of style. As a young woman, she always wore high heels and accessories. She modeled for local stores periodically and had a true flair for shopping and fashion. Pat loved to collect jewelry, clocks, dolls, and figurines.

Pat was deeply committed to helping others. She was a mother figure to many, always offering a smile and a helping hand to those in need. She was a passionate volunteer, dedicating her time as a stagehand at the Fairmont Opera House, the Information Desk at the hospital, and as a member of both the Fairmont Medical Center Auxiliary Board and the American Legion Auxiliary. She also volunteered at the Hotline Crisis Center, always giving back to her community.

In her later years, Pat and Roger continued to embrace the joys of travel. They enjoyed numerous trips through Profinium’s Top of the Hill Club, including memorable journeys to Hawaii and Las Vegas. Pat also had a special place in her heart for international travel, with her favorite cities being Vienna and Paris. When not traveling, Pat could often be found enjoying the countryside, listening to her favorite music, or watching game shows and the Vikings games. Pat also enjoyed playing board games with her family, sharing countless hours of laughter and love.

We would like to thank the staff at Goldfinch for the friendship and care provided to mom over the years. We want to give gratitude to the Dialysis care team for their consistent communication and compassion. We would also like to thank the UHD Hospice team for the support and guidance provided to mom and our family.

Pat is survived by her children, Debbie Lutz (David) of Plymouth, Minn. and Greg Cochran (Marcy) of Fairmont, Minn.; grandchildren, Regan Lutz, Justine Lutz, Katie Cochran, Garrett Cochran, Tyler Cochran, Tony Lucken; great-grandson, Vincent Cochran; nieces, Judy Clement, Sue Richardson, Cherie Richardson; as well as other relatives and dear friends.

Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Roger Cochran; her son, Gary Cochran; her sister, Doris Richardson; her parents, Burt and Alice Patterson; and her parents-in-law, Francis and Elizabeth Cochran.

We will all deeply miss her infectious smile, sweetness of heart, laughter, and gentle kindness.

www.lakeviewfuneralhome.net

COMMENTS

[vivafbcomment]