Everyone always mentions Johnny as the guy who was the life of the party, but I always loved it when we had the chance to just sit and catch up. He's the guy who always wanted to know everything that was going on with your family, and he genuinely cared about what you had to say and you knew he always had your back. 
Our crew lost a good one, but I take solace in thinking he would be yelling at us all to go enjoy life and live for the moment (he certainly did).

Rabbit & Casey Mahoney

I will forever be grateful that I had the opportunity to work for John in club services at USL. John was a fantastic leader, a mentor to me, and a great friend. From day one, he was always sharing the most absurd stories, many jokes, and his love for Brett and Ashley.  We talked about Tiger King, karaoke, his love for wresting, and we shared our passion for “SOCCER!” as John would randomly yell around the office. We shared in our sense of humor, and he would send funny videos and gifs. Every “blouse” Thursday or holiday, I looked forward to his spirited outfits. He taught me a lot about USL and was an office chat session or phone call away if I ever needed him for anything. He truly was the most selfless person I have ever met, and he made it his mission to keep everyone else smiling. John was a warrior, and he will forever be missed. I know he’s karaoking and telling jokes in heaven. Sending prayers to the Cochol family.

John you were 1000% always the life of the party. Your kindness, laughter, jokes, and positivity were contagious. We are so thankful our families came together that summer for a “framily” vacation. Our themed dinners, pool parties, spa therapy, and top notch volleyball game will be cherished forever. Brayden still talks about the AMAZING save you had and how you didn’t even spill your drink. We love you and can’t wait to see you on the other side (even though we know you will be watching from above). 

Love,

The Perez’s

John...I dont even know where to start....you were definitely a shining light and such a great person I had  the honor to actually become friends with...such a good spirit and funny guy...ill miss our football talks and pacing up and down the sidelines together...our "after football saturday lunches" you were a great man...Great husband.. great father ...great son and a great brother....your fight was bigger than life and you always had a positive mindset. This picture you sent me a while back was special...one of my favorite photos ever!!! I love you man...your always be my friend forever!!!! #comegetyousomegreatfriendship!!!!!

Dear Ashley & Brett , when I think of Orlando City Soccer Club , lots of people get mentioned as part of the team and I always thought of John as part of my team. 
In the early days when we had to wear many hats to make it a success, nobody wore more or bigger hats than John. 
John was always incredibly supportive to my staff and I. 
I will always remember that infectious smile and incredible enthusiasm and positivity of getting a bigger crowd each week, that was always his GOAL! 
John will always be one of the originals who built OCSC. 
John you will forever be in our hearts. 
God bless. 

Sincerely Coach Adrian Heath & family.

I met John as a parent in my classroom and he wasn’t just a parent but became a friend. From volunteering, to field trips, to weekly trivia nights, I enjoyed spending time with the Cochol family. John had such an amazing spirit and was his true self. I love and respect that. I wish Ashley and Brett love and healing through this difficult time. 
Love,
Ms. Stewart

My extended Freeport Framily is absolutely gutted right now. We lost one of the realest ones. 

As I read everyone’s tributes, I see that John Cochol wasn’t just a friend…he was a lifeline.
Because my last name is Codere, I sat near “Cochol” in lots of classes. And thank God for that!! Sitting next to John meant guaranteed laughter, a personal hype-man, and a steady supply of happiness.

Not many people know this, but John ***literally*** helped me graduate high school. 
 When I was being a rebel and ditching gym throughout senior year, he went straight to Coach Hal and negotiated my passing grade with the biggest box of dark chocolate you’ve ever seen, a bribe of mini M&Ms, and me singing patriotic songs to about 1,000 gym kids. No need to get my mom involved, or run laps after school so I could lead in my senior Musical.
 ….Didn’t read the book? Never sweat it. The Cochol brothers would tag-team tutoring me before class started so I not only passed the test—I aced it.

I saw what he wrote to me in my yearbook and it confirmed that John believed in my dreams when I was still figuring out how to believe in myself. 

He was a shining star in Select Chorale, the heart of every hangout, one of the BEST dance partners on the floor, and most definitely saved me from a few sketchy after-prom situations too. That’s just who he was—always looking out, always making us laugh, always showing up.

John showed us what guts, glory, and unconditional love really look like.
 Even as he battled through multiple brain surgeries and endless rounds of chemo, he never stopped making US feel better. His humor, his stories, his light never dimmed. 

There’s something unexplainable about growing up in Freeport. We weren’t just friends—we were chosen family. Invisible threads connect us always…I want to hug all my “boys from the hood” a little tighter today.

Sending so much love to The Cochol’s, and the entire extended family—by blood and by bond ❤️🖤🤍❤️🖤

I am heartbroken for my big sister in Chi Omega, Ashley, their amazing son Brett, the Cochol and Nader families, and everyone who had the privilege to know John Cochol. John is a beautiful soul filled with love and joy. His light is so bright and inspirational to all who know him.  He will continue to live on in our hearts and we will honor him by living life to the fullest no matter the circumstance. Thank you John, Ashley, and Brett for sharing your life story, family, and so many fun adventures with the world.  We love you!

❤️ the Spalding family

I heard many wonderful stories about John's life from his parents Amy and Warren, who are my neighbors. I heard all about his milestones over the years starting from when he was a young boy, and his success as a grown man.  I read all his posts and admired him so for his love of life and his family. With all that John went through, he never swayed from his extremely positive outlook. I am so sorry for your loss. May his memory be blessed.

I didn't know John but followed his journey with his brain tumors. Never have I seen such a positive individual who was an inspiration to all.  He has left a great legacy for you Ashley and Brett.  God received an amazing Angel to watch over you both.    Prayers to all.✝️🙏

Dear Ashley and Brett,
I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss.

Even though I didn’t know John very closely, his presence was impossible to miss—larger than life, quick with a laugh, and unforgettable. Whether cheering at Brett’s football games or dominating trivia nights (shirtless victories and all!), he brought humor and heart wherever he went. He fought his illness with so much courage for so many years, and his strength will always stay with those who loved him.

Ashley, you and he were truly a perfect match—both witty, bold, and full of life. And Brett, I feel lucky to know you. You always brighten the library when you visit, and I hope you always remember how deeply your dad loved you and how proud he was of you.

Sending you both love and my deepest sympathies,
Mike Segrest

Dear Brett, 
My name is Bobby and I've known your father and Uncle Bryan for over 30 years. The Freeport crew came together and got you some gifts. They will never replace the time and memories you will share with your family and your father, but hopefully it can be a little bit of a distraction from what has been a crazy couple years. I consider your father a brother and brothers show up for one another. As you grow up, make sure to surround yourself with friends that build you up, much like you would build a football team. One of our friends is the coach who organizes us and calls our plays. Your father, though, is our Captain. He is the heart of our friend group. We can always look to him as a source of strength and an example of what it means to give 100% in everything you do. You are going to look back at this as one of the most difficult times you encounter in your life, but hidden within all this, you are growing a secret super power that very few people your age have. You are learning that life is precious and you need to take time to truly enjoy the good in it. Enjoy time with your family. Enjoy time with your football team (you're a friggin rock star on that field, sir-pancake!). And though everything must come to an end, realize that everything we have and everything we experience is a gift. Our lives are truly a miracle and you had the extra blessing of being born a COCHOL! Come get you some brotherly love and love for life! Freeport will always have your back!

- Bobby Notheis

I do not know John or Ashley in person but I feel like I do from the stories my friends from Bellamy tell. They both sound like the kind of people you want in your life and I am deeply sorry for the family for losing someone so special so soon in life. I do love that you have so many wonderful memories and pray that carries you through the darkest times.

Brett, your dad was a truly special man. We went to school together, and while it was great being his classmate, it was on the football and lacrosse fields where he really left his mark on me. Even 20 years later, I can still picture JC doing the right thing - not for recognition, but simply because it was the right thing to do. He held himself accountable, led by example, and taught us the power of staying true to yourself.

I'm sure you'll have that same gift Brett- a natural presence that people are drawn to. You’ll carry his legacy forward in your own way. My prayers are with you and your mother during this difficult time.

JC: ‘Let’s go red!!’ 

Love,
Drew H

One of my favorite memories of John was from Scott's casino birthday party. The second the party started, John took his chips, chose a color and went ALL IN at the Roulette table. I'm pretty sure he said something to the effect of "go big, or go home." He lost that time, but that essentially was John- ALL IN on everything he did in life! I'll always be thankful for the example he lead by- to put his heart and soul into everything he did.

To the family of John Joseph Cochol, Words cannot express how we feel about the passing of John. His mom & dad were friends of ours in  the 1980’s & 90’s when we lived in N.Y.  We remember our children playing together while celebrating birthdays & holidays . Remembering, John & his twin brother  & sister as little kids and how cute and well behaved they were. They showed their love of family & were brought up with morals & values by their mom & dad. What a beautiful family.  Our hearts go out to  his parents, Warren & Amy, his wife, son, brother & sister. May God give you all his peace that surpasses all human understanding. God comforts all who mourn. Our Sympathy,  Rosanne & Michael Currie

The first time I met John was at his office.  I don't remember why we went there but I remember his smile. I remember how friendly he was.  I remember how he radiated   energy and warmth.  

Later, I saw him as your husband.  Oh how much he loved you.  His positivity, deep commitment, and never ending support inspired me.  Every achievement you made, he was there.  Every milestone, he raised you up.  He was your consummate cheerleader. It was amazing to watch. 

Later still, I saw John as a father to Brett. Extraordinary!  His support to Brett from his birth through is school years were very evident.  Through Facebook, we all knew how much he loved Brett.  Their antics, their fun, their love for each other, was very transparent.  

John was a great man, husband, and dad. He will be greatly missed. I pray that God grants you, Brett, and your family, perfect peace. John is with the angels. 

John, go get you some jokes with Jesus!! ❤️

Our hearts are with you all during this great time of loss of John. Words cannot adequately convey what I want to say. You all are being prayed for and we love you. There really will never be another one like him. Asking the Lord to surround you with peace and comfort as only He can and to hold you close. Big big hugs!

Cousin Fran

So sorry to get this news after such a long and arduous battle by John with cancer and tumors.  I've dreaded watching as he fought it so valiantly always with a smile on his face, and the full support of Ashley and Brett all along the way ... I first met John in the early days of Sacramento Republic FC  as he led the weekly USL Championship sales conference calls w/ wit, humor & encouragement. He played a huge role in the league's growth. Condolences to his entire supportive family that fought his tough battle alongside him. RiP John. 😪 ⚽️ 🏟

Brett-I was so lucky to have met your amazing mom before she met your dad. She was so excited when they met. He came to our school function and was brave enough to meet a whole gaggle of mom’s friends at once. He was so very friendly and genuine. I knew he was a perfect match, I never expected that your mom would meet someone who matched her positive and very contagious energy. But she did-your dad. They had a perfect love and welcomed the amazing you into the world. I have watched your dad love you and your mom BIG over the years and he was just the best. Everyone who met him loved him immediately. -Jody Brown

John, 

I’m forever grateful for meeting you, your amazing son and your lovely wife Ashley!! Watching you guys on the field supporting your son and team helped shape me into the football mom I am today!! John was always himself and never cared what anyone thought, something I’m still trying to figure out in life now. Thanks for always supporting The Elkins family even when you didn’t know you were. God gained another angel 😇 !! We know you’ll watch every game from above , watching our boys, rooting them on, and making sure the referees are doing their jobs!! #oneofakind #ramsstrong #valricoramsfamily

Always in our hearts,

The Elkins family 🥰

Ashley and Brett, 
So very sorry for your loss of a clearly amazing man, husband, father.  It was a blessing to walk with you on your journey of faith.  Through that walk, I got to know your family.  John was bigger than life.  He walked his health journey with so much grace, encouragement and love for others.  He was such an inspiration to me and so many others.  I’m sure heaven is a little more exciting with him there.  He’ll be looking over you guys every day.  Someone else said it, and I know it’s true, while your life  together was way too short, many people never experience that love in a long lifetime.  Hold those memories until you all meet again.  Bless you!  
Love and prayers, 
Rhea (and Jim)

I learn to know John through Trunk o’ Treat at school and through Ashley and Brett , I was always amazed about  his happy  spirit no matter what. He manage to  make me smile with his post on Facebook. And seeing how my sweet boy Brett enjoy every single second with his dad. Brett Mrs. Maria loves you to the moon and back.

Ashley, I am so very deeply sorry for your loss.  I never met John, but I remember Ashley leaving my house after tutoring my daughter and she was going out with this guy she had met. Well John was that guy. Even though I never knew John I felt like I did through every post I read on social media. He was an amazing one of a kind person. Ashley I am so glad you were able to experience love like that. Some people are married for 50 years and never get to experience a love that beautiful and fierce. Cherish those memories and use them to keep him alive. Big hugs! 
Alyse Cordova

Lad. Leader. Legend. We wrote it on your board, and you wrote it in our hearts, John. Thank you for the long, random football chats in the office, the insane pub quiz trivia team names, and for teaching me how to "pound the phones."

Your family will always be taken care of, and I know you'll always be around to see that. Your courage was relentless and your spirit indomitable. We will never forget your joy for this life.

May God rest your soul and watch over your family forever, brother. Thank you for everything.

Ashley  & Brett 

My heart aches for you and your sweet boy during this unimaginable time. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. The love you and your husband shared was something truly remarkable — a beautiful example of partnership, strength, and unwavering devotion. As a family, the way you supported one another was inspiring, and the bond you built is one that will forever be admired.

Your husband faced this journey with tremendous courage, grit, and grace. His strength, and the love that carried him through, is something we will never forget. Please know you are surrounded by so many who are holding you close in love and prayer. May his spirit live on in every memory, and may his light continue to shine through your son.

With deepest sympathy,
Nicolette Barone

John was a great teammate and loyal friend. He was one of the most authentic and genuine people I’ve ever had the privilege to call a friend. I’m so thankful that life afforded us the opportunity to cross paths and share so many fond memories. He was the other half of the Bill Brasky Bangers and I will miss him dearly.

Love ya Johnny!  To Bill Brasky!

What an amazing man your father was Brett!   I hope that you grow up knowing how loved, funny and strong he was.  We spent many years playing sports together and every year he was one of the toughest, most hardworking  teammates.   He pushed us all by leading by example.  He was always present, prepared and ready to work with his peanut butter sandwich (because Coach wanted to beef him up to be in the offensive and defensive lines).  I could write a book.  We weren’t as connected in our adulthood but I’d always check in.   We always rooted for eachother.   That’s what Freeport Football was all about, brotherhood.   I expect great things from you Brett! With love

Omar Walden

My deepest sympathy to Ashley, Brett, and John's family and friends. We are praying for you all. We love you.

What I learned most from John and his life, how he lived, is this.  Love big.  Be positive.  Smile.  Laugh.  Be a friend to everyone.  Live.

May he be enjoying every reward in Heaven.

All our love,
Joanne, Michael, Anthony, and Colette 
Mathers

Dear John,

You were my first boss as a professional with Orlando City. You were an amazing person who taught me how to be a professional and every day was such a joy to come work for you. Even though we didn’t keep in touch as much as when we worked together I will always cherish our friendship and consider you a brother. I pray for your wife and your son. I know how much you loved football and we shared a passion for the NY Giants. I will never forget you and thank you for the memories. Your buddy Al.

John truly lived life to the fullest. He was the guy with the big smile, the infectious & boisterous laugh, and a high five ready for anyone who wanted one. He could light up any room with his witty jokes and endless movie references…he always had the perfect line for every situation. From belting out “Call Me Maybe” shirtless on stage at Rising Star to the countless late nights in the office, sometimes even spending the night just to make sure season tickets were ready, John’s energy and passion were unmatched.

I’ve always admired his dedication to his work, his unwavering love for family and friends, and the joy he brought into every room he entered. John, you will always be an inspiration, and I will cherish our friendship forever.

My heart, thoughts & prayers go out to John’s wife Ashley, his son Brett, and the rest of the Cochol family. John left behind an incredible legacy for us all.

In his own words: “COME GET YOU SOME GOOD MEMORIES!” Rest easy, my friend. Until we meet again. ❤️

Our family will always remember Johnny's entertaining dance at Steve and Jeni's wedding!  He was certainly the life of the party!  The extended Rugby family will certainly miss him!

John was the kindest, biggest hearted person I’ve had the opportunity to not only meet, but become friends with. He can make a room of sadness laugh just by walking in. Every person he’s come into contact with, one way or another. Has made them smile or laugh till their face hurt, which made it even funnier. There’s so much about this man you just can’t put into words. He was one of a kind, and will forever be missed as well as remembered by many. As for Brett, We never met, But your dad…he was something special, the kind of special that people can only dream of becoming. If I know your dad the way I do. You’ll NEVER actually be alone. It’s never goodbye when you hold people close to your heart

Johnny was always so much more than the life of the party... he was the heart of the party.  The one who connected us all, with warmth and a contagious smile.  He was among the most positive and optimistic people I have ever met, even amidst his own personal challenges.  Johnny was the biggest esteem-booster for others, always lifting everyone else up, whether they knew they needed it or not.  He impacted so many more lives than he realized.  Come get you some lasting memories.  <3 JessK (Ripple)

A life well lived indeed!  From coming to know John and the Cochol family when our boys were young brings back such wonderful memories. John was a character. He lit up every room he entered. He was a solid friend. Our family was honored to be there when he married his soul mate, Ashley, when his vows took us all by surprise. “You’re God damn right I do” will be etched in our memory forever!  And then along came Brett. John’s pride and joy. I love that Brett will have such great memories of that crazy Dad of his. We will all miss you John. Watch over us and get that party started!  With love Kathy and Bob Notheis

I always looked forward to his “get you some “ taglines. I had the pleasure of meeting him while attending Brett’s party and he’s truly one of kindest people you could ever meet. A relentless warrior, this is a job well done. Get you some rest ❤️

John i know you're up there with our father.  You are still a great man and I think of the times we were together with that silly smiley on your gorgeous mug.   Please rest in peace as you deserve it and we know you will be looking down and watching over all your friends, family and loved ones.     Rest well brother

Swanny

John was so full of life, so positive. He always took the time to wish me happy birthday and find a Beverly Hills 90210 picture to go with it! Even after 10+ years of making those memories. I’m deeply sad for the world to have lost a person like John. Sending a prayer to the family.

John was my season ticket rep for the Minnesota Lynx and we became IMMEDIATE friends. He lived so full and loved so wholly. We bonded and stayed in touch after he left Minney and I was so thrilled when he found Ashley. He treated me like a brother and it was an honour to know him. Come get you some freedom from the pain and struggles, brother. 

Peace, Webster Ford

OBITUARIO

John Joseph Cochol

15 mayo, 1986 – 31 julio, 2025

Stowers Funeral Home

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