James R. Cochrane

Cochrane, James Robbin, 81 of Fort Mill, SC, formerly of Louisville KY passed away on Monday February 24, 2014. Jim was born January 24, 1933 in Nassawadox, VA to James J. "JJ" and Jewel Bell Cochrane. His early years were spent following his parents across the country (including the Virgin Islands) as his father did roofing and metalworking jobs to support the family. His closest friends and true home were in Montgomery, AL where he graduated from Sidney Lanier HS in 1950. At age 17 Jim attended the New York Institute of Photography in New York City. He served his country for two years in the Korean Conflict and was a reporter for"The Army Times" and "Stars and Stripes". Jim continued his love of photography and design at Auburn University and graduated with a degree in Industrial Design in 1957. Jim continued his graduate studies in design at the University of Chicago and worked for many years as an industrial designer for Sunbeam and then Hotpoint in Chicago. He loved downtown Chicago, especially the art and jazz and diversity of human life. In the late 60's he transferred to Louisville, KY to work for the design center of Appliance Park. He is survived by many of his GE friends who probably remember flying kites on a dare from the top of the building, or how Jim would sometimes bring in his dog, Sinbad to keep them company during late-night projects. Jim dedicated over 30 years to GE and was a member of the Elfun Society. Jim lived his dream of travelling the back roads of America with his beloved wife and best friend Carole, as well as trips to New Zealand, Tahiti, Italy, Canada, and Mexico. He was also a lifelong supporter of the arts in Louisville, and a dedicated volunteer and board member of the Recording for the Blind. He is remembered for his quick wit and boundless curiosity to explore new books, art, music as well as his passion of sharing his very strong opinions on life, politics and religion with friends and family. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, the former Carole Cambron; daughter Robin C. Yacovetta (Mark) and grandson Samuel James Yacovetta, and his brother William Michael Cochrane (Sherrell) of Jasper AL. His memorial will be private, but friends and family are encouraged to visit his memorial bench at Willow Park (1402 Willow Ave. Louisville KY 40204) this summer in the Cherokee Triangle where his family lived for over 13 years. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Hospice & Community Care PO Box 993 Rock Hill SC 29731, to his memorial bench fund (Olmsted Parks Conservancy, 1299 Trevilian Way, Louisville KY 40213 "JRC Memorial") or just a promise to be thoughtful of others every day.

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