John A. Cochran, 90, of Newtown, passed away peacefully on January 21. John was born on August 12, 1930, in Schenectady, New York, and moved to Newtown with his family as a young child. He then lived in Newtown his entire life and was educated in the Newtown school system.

John is survived by his wife of 63 years, Marie Forader Cochran of Newtown; his brother-in-law Alvin Forader and wife, Janet, of Wolfeboro, N.H.; and several nieces and nephews.

After graduating from Newtown High School, John attended the University of Bridgeport where he earned a teacher education degree. After graduation, John enlisted in the United States Army and served from 1952 to 1954. He received his artillery training at Fort Sill, Okla., and was then deployed to Germany. He was honorably discharged and went on to attend Western Connecticut University and earned his master’s degree in education.

John taught in the Ridgefield School District for 35 years. As a high school math teacher, John developed the high school curriculum in computer science, coached the high school math team, assisted in coaching the debate team, and chaperoned many school activities. John loved seeing students enjoy learning and achieving their academic goals.

As a young man, John became a member of the Dodgingtown Volunteer Fire Department. He was a lifetime member of the department and served as Department Chief for several years. He also served as treasurer and organizer of many departmental events. Even in his late 70s, he appeared at fire scenes in his turnout gear.

John learned to read at an early age and was an avid reader all his life. John always carried a bookbag with his reading materials, whether he was going on a train ride, a boat ride, or to a football game. He was a dedicated fan of the Lady Huskies basketball team and especially enjoyed attending their games at the XL Center. John also enjoyed following the Syracuse University and Army football teams. He attended many games at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse and at Michie Stadium at West Point.

Among other activities, John loved launching his boat on Lake Candlewood. He knew every little cove on the lake and frequently visited his favorite spot on shore for a hot dog roast. John also looked forward to taking his boat to Long Island Sound to fish for flounder or bluefish. When not on the water, John worked diligently in his yard and on his self-created pine forest in his backyard. It was not unusual for John to offer one of his trees to a friend or family member to enjoy as their Christmas tree. In later years, John could be seen ringing the Salvation Army bell in Newtown during the Christmas season.

There will be no calling hours. A graveside service will take place on Saturday, January 30, at 11 am in Newtown Village Cemetery, 20 Elm Drive, Newtown. All are welcome to attend. Attendees must wear face masks and practice social distancing.

Donations may be made in John’s memory to the Dodgingtown Volunteer Fire Department, 55 Dodgingtown Road, Newtown CT 06470; or to the Salvation Army, 15 Foster Street, Danbury CT 06810.

Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown is in charge of arrangements.