Dean Cocker

Dean Cocker, age 70, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2024, at Methodist Hospital after battling lung cancer. 

Dean was born on March 13th, 1954, to Douglas and Helen Cocker in Rochester, MN. He graduated from John Marshall High School in 1973 and shortly after entered the Plumbing Union. He was one of the owners of the Pizza Coop, opened in 1981. He then started DMC Plumbing and Heating in 1983, running that successfully for the last 40 years. Dean married Cathy Carlson on October 14th, 1989, and they built their life in Pine Island. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, taking every opportunity he could to travel with friends to many remote locations. He loved spending time in the woods and in his shed surrounded by his family and friends. Dean was known for lending a helping hand whenever he could and enjoyed getting to know people over a beer. Dean was a father figure and like a brother to many and will be missed by all who knew him.  

Dean is survived by his loving wife Cathy; his children Chad (Katy) Cocker, Lee (Renee) Cocker, and Alli (Alex) Blackwell; his grandchildren Madison, Gabriel, Sophia, Elena, and Isabelle; his siblings David (Denice) Cocker, Barbara Stanfiel, and Jane Cocker. He was preceded in death by his parents Douglas and Helen.  

A Celebration of Life at the Pine Island American Legion in Pine Island, MN is planned for July 26th, 2024, from 4pm-8pm.  

In lieu of flowers, donations welcome to Pine Island American Legion and Ducks Unlimited.