Obituary of Gerald "Eric" Cochrane

Passed away peacefully on Friday, March 27, 2026, in Hants Community Hospital, Windsor, with loved ones by his side. Born in Windsor, on December 3, 1936, Eric was raised in Sweets Corner by his late parents, Gerald and Ethel (Reading) Cochrane.

Eric spent many years working as a mechanic with the Fundy Gypsum Company, but his true passion in life was farming. The land was his pride and joy. He was well respected among fellow farmers and was often sought out for his knowledge and advice. He had a remarkable green thumb and could grow just about anything. Over the years, he established a well-known strawberry and raspberry U-pick. His farm was full of life. Many fondly remember “White Socks”, the llama who faithfully watched over the cattle in the field, a sight that brought smiles to many.

Eric will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his deep love of farming and the care he put into everything he grew and raised. His legacy lives on in the land he loved and in the many memories shared by those who knew him.

Eric was fortunate to have his spouse, Kathy Joyce, who shared in farm life and supported him over the years. He was the father of children, Patricia Ward (Bill, deceased), the late Brian, Marlene Doolan (John) and Martin (Paula). He was also a cherished grandfather to Kathy and Joanie, whom he helped raise. Eric is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Jarett, Stephanie, Deanna, Jenny, Andrea, Joel, and Melanie; great-grandchildren; brother, John (Marie); sister, Donna (Richard); extended family, friends, neighbours and all who knew him through the farm and community. He also leaves behind his stepchildren, Gayle Joyce-Brown (Peter), Corrina and Karen Joyce.

Besides his parents and son, he was predeceased by brother, Myron Reading; sisters, Mae Atwell, Sheila Weatherbed and Maxine Watson; granddaughter, Shelly Cochrane and great-grandson, Zachary Carson.

The family would like to thank the doctors and staff of Units 200 and 500 at Hants Community Hospital for their excellent care and compassion during his stay.

Arrangements for cremation have been entrusted to DeMont Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 419 Albert St., Windsor (902-798-8317). The family will receive family and friends during an open house on Thursday, April 2 from 1-3 p.m., in the Sweets Corner Community Hall, 6936 Hwy 14, Sweets Corner. A private family interment will be held in Riverview Haven Cemetery, Brooklyn. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Eric may be made to Hants Community Hospital Foundation, 89 Payzant Dr., Windsor, NS B0N 2T0 or Alzheimer Society of NS, 112-2719 Gladstone St., Halifax, NS B3K 4W6. Messages may be sent to the family by visiting: www.demontfamilyfuneralhome.ca, open the obituary and click on the condolence tab.