Charles Lee Cochrane, "Charlie" or " Lee", 73, passed away Tuesday, July 24th with his loving wife, Jeannie (Fenska) Cochrane of 31 years by his side. Charlie was born November 15th, 1944 in Williamston, MI to Hyland and Goldean (Pratt) Cochrane. Charlie graduated from Dansville High School in 1963. He served our country in the U.S. Army as a sergeant from 1967 to 1971. Charlie was so proud to serve the community of Williamston for 50 years as a member of NIESA/Williamston Fire Department, retiring this year as a lieutenant. Charlie was also a member of Williamston Eagles and Williamston Canada Club.
He was owner/operator of Lee's Standard Station in Williamston. His path took him through many adventures and occupations, but with mechanics and tinkering being his passion, he eventually opened and became the proud business owner of Charlie's Repair in Williamston.
Charlie loved life and time spent with his family and friends; whether it was cooking out, sharing his love for classic cars, John Deere Tractors, or just gathering around. His garage will forever be filled with memories of the best times of pulling up a stool and having a good laugh. Charlie instilled the importance of hard work and value of family.
-We LOVE you Charlie, "well, someone's got too."
Charles is survived by his wife, Jeannie Cochrane; children, Tammy-Sue & Paul Consavage, Tommi-Lea & Drew Starr, Toni-Jo Cochrane, Charles & Amber Cochrane; siblings, Joyce Malloy, Maggie & Bob VanAlstine, Sharron & Tom Bouck, Fern & Bill Reed, Paul & Barbara Cochrane; grandchildren, Brandon, Suzanna, Cynthia, Grace, Summer, Kadence, Anastasia, Lacey Starr, Nicholas & Lorinda Starr; great- grandchildren, Ryder, Harley, Cyrus, Lucian, Liliana, Lola, & Emmett; and many loved nieces and nephews.
Charles is predeceased by his sister, Janet Cochrane, and brothers, Larry Cochrane, Bruce Cochrane, and Wayne Cochrane.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Hospice of Lansing, Capital Area Humane Society or Williamston Fire Department.
Visitations will be held July 30th from 2:00pm- 4:00pm and 6:00pm -8:00pm, at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes located at 205 East Middle Street Williamston, MI 48895
Funeral Services will be held on July 31st 2018 at 11:00 AM. There will be visitation one hour before the service, at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, located at 205 East Middle Street Williamston, MI 48895
Charlie will be laid to rest at Summit Cemetery in Williamston.
Famous last words from Charlie... “Well, you don’t have to rush off.”