Bryan Thomas Cochlan was born on March 5, 1936 in Claresholm, Alberta and passed away on
Friday, January 22, 2021 at the Claresholm General Hospital at the age of 84 years.
He will be lovingly remembered by his family, wife, Beverly of 62 years; daughters, Paula (Darcy) Friesen and Diana (Lenny) Carlson; his grandchildren, Jeremy (Hannah) Johnson, Jolayne (Luke) Opitz and Karli (Greg) Martin whom he was extremely proud of. Great grandchildren Colbie, Brodie, Owen, Waylon, Colton, Easton and Kollins. Sister Norma, and brothers Mike and Terry, as well as numerous family members.
Barney is predeceased by his parents Norman (Shorty) and Melba Cochlan, brother Guy Cochlan and sister Iris Cochlan.
Barney grew up in the Table Butte district and married Beverly Brown in 1958. They farmed and ranched west of Stavely until 1970 when they moved to the Waldron Ranch. Barney always wanted to own his own ranch and in 1974 they bought the Tom Heap ranch north of Cowley on the Oldman River where they lived for 30 years ranching and raising quarter horses. In 2001 the Cochlan’s bought the Mifflin Ranch west of Claresholm and built a house in Claresholm where they currently reside.
Barney had a quiet nature; he was a thinker always ready for a good debate regarding politics or money. He was a born entrepreneur who loved the challenge of getting ahead, whether that meant inventing in land or cattle. His success was his indication of a life well lived. Horses were his passion and he loved his cattle and made his living from both. Barney was the leader of the Timber Trails 4-H Beef Club, president of the North Fork Grazing Association and managing director of the Waldron grazing Co-op. The Cochlan’s also enjoyed going south in the winter to enjoy the warmer climate and visit with friends in Yuma, Arizona.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Claresholm General Hospital and Willow Creek Continuing Care for all their compassionate care and support. Barney will be missed by family and friends.
A Private Family Service will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Claresholm Health Foundation.
Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.myalternatives.ca