Passing the Torch 2026

Each year, we pause to remember those who have passed away. Through their work, dedication, and community spirit, each made a lasting contribution to Cochrane.

Geoffrey Alderman

Geoffrey Alderman

October 26, 1931 — August 7, 2025

Geoffrey was the beloved husband of Lynda Alderman, a long-time and deeply valued volunteer with CHAPS. Through Lynda’s many hours devoted to archiving at the Cochrane Historical Museum and her involvement in the publishing of More Big Hill Country.  Like many partners of dedicated volunteers, his contribution was often unseen but deeply felt.

 

Donna Airth

Donna Airth Powlesland

September 22, 1951 — August 26, 2025

 

Margaret Buckley

Margaret Buckley

May 13, 1935 — October 14, 2025

Yvonne Callaway

Yvonne Callaway

November 14, 1936 – November 25, 2025

Patrick Coyle

Pat Coyle

April 20, 1940 — November 21, 2025

Pat Coyle will be remembered with deep gratitude by the Cochrane community for his lasting contributions to the Cochrane Historical Museum. Pat was instrumental in the relocation of the Museum.

A skilled craftsman, Pat took on much of the carpentry and brick work on the historic house, ensuring it was moved and restored with care and respect for its heritage. His hands helped preserve a tangible piece of Cochrane’s past, and his work continues to be seen and appreciated by all who visit the Museum.

James McPherson

James McPherson

May 21, 1935  –  December 18, 2025

Jenny Spicer

Jenny Spicer

Jenny Spicer was born on March 7, 1941, to Marjorie and Harold Spicer. She grew up in Cochrane and graduated in 1962, maintaining a lifelong connection to the community that helped shape her early years.

Although she later made her home in Parksville, Jenny never lost touch with Cochrane. She remained a keen and loyal follower of local news and history, ardently engaging with community social media and taking great interest in the people, stories, and places she remembered so well. Her continued connection was a quiet but meaningful reminder of how deeply Cochrane stayed with those who once called it home.

 

Shirley Thomas

Shirley Thomas

December 11, 1934 — September 25, 2025

 

John Dennis Wearmouth

Dennis Wearmouth

April 14, 1933 – January 19, 2026

 

Joan Robin Harvie

HARVIE, Joan “Robin” (née Williams)

February 28, 1933 – March 18, 2026

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