Dean Cochran

Donald Dean Cochran was born on August 8, 1935, in Chandler, Okla., to Emily Murrell (Herd) and William K. Polk Cochran. A proud Class of 1954 graduate of Chandler High School, Dean was a multi-sport varsity letterman, loved basketball, and excelled in track and field events. He continued to participate in track and field competitions during his college career at Central State University, in Edmond, Okla.

On April 15, 1960, he married his high school sweetheart, Mary Sue (Moore), and they moved to Buffalo, Okla., where he began work in the cattle industry. In 1964, they welcomed a beautiful daughter, Pamela Kay, into their lives, and moved to Perryton, Texas, in 1970. In 1975, their adored son, Steve Alan, completed their family.

Dean had a long career as an independent broker in the grain and cattle industry, as well as working for Buffalo Feeders, Wheatheart Feeders, Dudley Feeders, and the Perryton Equity Exchange. He was a member of Perryton’s First Assembly of God Church, serving as secretary for several years, and he was an active member of the Community Worship Center’s prayer team. Over the years, his hobbies included calf roping, golf, tennis, hunting for birds and deer, and he truly loved being the announcer at youth rodeos.

Quick with a smile, a firm handshake, and generous words of encouragement, Dean possessed a joyful spirit that he loved to share with others. In fact, his favorite place on Earth was on his front porch, in a comfortable chair, a glass of iced tea in his hand, and a friend by his side engaging in lively conversation.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Mary Sue, of Perryton, Texas; his little sister, Anna Lou Cochran, of Chandler, Okla.; his daughter and son-in-law, Pam and Tom Bay, of Chandler, Okla.; his son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Jill Cochran, of Sundown, Texas; grandson Donald Ruzicka and his partner, Kylie Austin, of Tulsa, Okla.; granddaughter Jamye Ruzicka, of Tulsa, Okla.; granddaughter Clara Cochran and grandson Cale Cochran, of Sundown, Texas; in addition to many well-loved cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Dean will be laid to rest at a graveside service at Oak Park Cemetery, in Chandler, Okla., at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 28, and honored at a Celebration of Life in Perryton, Texas, later. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Chandler High School Alumni Association, PO Box 501, Chandler, Okla., 74834, or to any charity of your choosing.  Local arrangements are under the direction of Lehman Funeral Home of Wellston.

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