Carla Rae Cochrane

She was born on November 4, 1938, in Westfield, Massachusetts. After graduating from Westfield High School in 1956, Carla moved to Ventura to begin a life of adventure. After traveling to and living in several other cities and countries, she moved back to Ventura in 1978 where she has resided ever since. Carla worked as a real estate office administrator in Ventura, her “temporary job,” for 33 years. She was passionate about cooking, traveling, and entertaining. But what she loved most was simply spending time with her family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Chet and Sue Gagnon; and her brother, Jack. Carla is survived by her son, John of Ventura and her daughter, Julie of San Francisco; John’s partner Vince and Julie’s husband Michael; granddaughter, Abigail; her two cats, “Charlie and Jasper,” and a large network of loyal and cherished friends across the U.S. and around the world.

The family wishes to thank Buena Vista Hospice and her caregivers for their selfless compassion and loving care. We also want to express our deepest gratitude to her many close friends – her extended family – who provided love and comfort in her final days. Carla is dearly missed, but she will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

A private family graveside service will be held at Skylawn Memorial Park in San Mateo.

A Celebration of Carla’s Life will be held on Sunday, June 23, 2013, 3:00 P.M., at Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura, with The Reverend Dan Hull officiating. A reception in Carla’s honor will follow at Carla’s home. In lieu of flowers, if desired, memorial donations may be made in Carla’s name to the Humane Society of Ventura County.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura.