Stephen B. Cochran

Stephen B. Cochran of Cozad, Nebraska passed away on December 19, 2025 at Cozad Community Hospital.

Steve was born on December 13, 1943 in Lewellen, Nebraska to R. Bruce Cochran and Viola (Christensen) Cochran. He graduated from Lewellen Rural High School in 1962 and continued his education at Wesleyan University in Lincoln, Nebraska.

On September 4, 1966, Steve married Vicki Gummere at the United Presbyterian Church in Sutherland, Nebraska. The couple made their home on the family farm north of Lewellen from 1966 until 2011. In June of 2011, they moved to Cozad, where they have since resided.

Steve was baptized as an infant and later became a member of the United Methodist Church in Lewellen.

One of Steve’s greatest accomplishments, and a source of deep pride for him, was joining the Masonic Order in April of 1969. He attained 50-year membership in the local Masonic Lodge, the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, and the Tehama Shriners.

Steve is survived by his wife of 59 years, Vicki of Cozad; his children, Jason (Tara) Cochran of McCook and Samantha Cochran of Roseland; his grandson, Aiden Sommer; his niece, Paige (Jeff) Kreycik, and her children, Presley (Tucker) Bartlett and baby Bowen of Gothenburg, alson with Dawson and Jack of Kearney; his nephews, Ty (Mikaela) Schurr of Gothenburg and their children Jude and Gus, and Jerud (Tamatha) Schurr of Phillipsburg, Kansas; as well as a host of trucking “buddies” and special friends. Last but not least, he is also survived by Torri Sue, His beloved four-legged child.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Bruce and Viola Cochran; five siblings; and his brother and sister in law, Jerry and Linda Schurr of Farnam, Nebraska.

Steve lived a long and beautiful life, filled with laughter, love, and meaningful connections.

Online condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be directed to Shriners Children’s Hospital. Checks should be made payable to the Children’s Cancer Research Fund in Steve’s name and mailed to 1650 W. 82nd Street, Suite 400, Minneapolis, MN 55431. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Berryman Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.