Lois Ethelyn Cochran

Lois Ethelyn Cochran (née Rowe), age 88, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2026, in Longmont, Colorado. Born in Iowa, Lois lived a life filled with love, dedication, and service to her family and community.

Lois graduated from Glenwood High School and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Peru Nebraska State Teacher’s College. She began her professional journey as a schoolteacher for one year before transitioning into early computer programming. However, her most cherished role was that of homemaker extraordinaire. Lois poured her creativity and talent into every aspect of her life, whether it was repairing bicycles for neighborhood children, leading Camp Fire groups, or crafting beautifully decorated cakes for church events and family celebrations.

Lois shared a loving marriage with her husband of 63 years, Tracy Cochran. Their first-born son Keith Alan Cochran, passed away as an infant. Together they raised two children: daughters Kay L. Cochran and Janice L. Cochran-Young. Lois is also survived by her brother William and sisters Carolyn and Linda. Her legacy extends to two step-grandchildren, as well as four step-great-grandchildren.

A woman of deep faith and commitment to her church community, Lois was a devoted member of Trinity United Methodist Church for 65 years. She played handbells with the church bell choirs for many years and served as the anchor for the United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women), meticulously organizing and maintaining records for the group. Even during hospital stays or rehabilitation periods, Lois remained connected to her faith by attending Sunday services virtually through her laptop.

Lois had a passion for sewing and crafting that brought joy to those around her. She created costumes and props for her daughters’ special occasions and took pride in sharing these talents with others. Her hobbies also included gardening, hiking in the Colorado mountains she loved so dearly, participating in the computer club and SAAB club, writing letters to her great-grandchildren in Oklahoma, and volunteering with the Colorado Trail Crew. For many years she organized crews, worked on trail maintenance projects, and managed mailing lists for this group. Additionally, Lois and Tracy were active members of a hot air balloon crew for the "Easy Rider" balloon at the Albuquerque Balloon Festival—a tradition they enjoyed together over several years.

Every Christmas season brought an extra sparkle to Lois’s home as she displayed her extensive angel and nativity collection—a reflection of both her artistic spirit and devotion to the holiday’s meaning.

Lois will be remembered as a dedicated and loving person who touched countless lives through her kindness, creativity, faithfulness, and generosity. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of Lois's life will take place at Trinity United Methodist Church located at 1820 Broadway in Denver on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 10:00 AM. A reception with the family will follow the service in the Fellowship Hall of the church.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, those wishing to honor Lois's memory are encouraged to contribute to causes close to her heart or their own local communities. These causes include:

o Trinity United Methodist Church (Denver)

o The Colorado Trail Foundation

May Lois Ethelyn Cochran’s memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to share in her remarkable journey through life.