Hugh R. Cocker

Hugh Ronald Cocker, 93, of Rochester, passed away peacefully Wednesday, September 24, 2014 at Seasons Hospice. Hugh was born July 26, 1921 in Canton, MN to Walter and Hazel (McMaster) Cocker. He was a graduate of Canton High School. Hugh proudly served his country and was a veteran of the US Army Air Corps. On June 20, 1943, Hugh married Ruth Whiting at the Methodist Church here in Rochester. He had a passion for horticulture and worked at Whitings for over 30 years. Hugh hybridized and registered 15 lilies and his hibiscus Christy. He was an officer, judge or on the board for over 12 floral organizations, including the Hosta Club, Rochester Flower and Garden, North Star Lily Society and the North American Lily Society. His other hobbies included being on the Fair Board, active in 4-H for over 30 years, and was instrumental in organizing the horse project for 4-H. Hugh was active in the Sportsmen Club, lifetime member of the NRA, enjoyed square dancing, hunting and wood crafting. He also enjoyed raising Shetland ponies, exotic pheasants, peacocks and pigeons. He was the longest standing member at First Presbyterian Church for 74 years. Hugh is survived by his children Carolyn Marie Jorgensen of Eyota, MN, Randa Lou (Lucirdes) Ferreira of St. Paul, MN, Kathy Jan (Allen) Spurger of Giddings, TX, Anita Gail (Ed) Montgomery of Broomfield, CO, Beverly Ann Gilbertson of Elko, NV and Cynthia Sue Millar of Mantorville, MN; 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sister, Kathryn Phares of Cedar Rapids, IA and sister-in-law, Janet Cocker of Chatfield, MN. Hugh was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ruth; 3 brothers, Douglas, Grant and Curtis and by his parents, Walter and Hazel. A memorial service will be held 11:00 am Saturday, September 27, 2014 at First Presbyterian Church 512 3rd St. SW, Rochester. Visitation will be held 5:00-8:00 pm Friday, September 26, 2014 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester and one hour prior to the service at the church. Pastor Carol Shaffer will be officiating with inurnment at Pilot Mound Cemetery.