It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Don Cochrane Jr., Chief Financial Officer of Cochrane Supply & Engineering, on November 11, 2024. Don was just 55 years young and his loss leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, colleagues, and the smart building automation industry. 


Cochrane Supply, a second-generation family-owned business, has been a leader in smart building automation and controls for decades. For 30 years, Don Cochrane Jr. worked alongside his brother, Scott Cochrane, Chief Executive Officer, to transform the company into an industry cornerstone. Under their leadership, Cochrane Supply expanded to 11 branch locations across six U.S. states and Canada and earned numerous accolades, including the Vykon Summit Award, multiple Honeywell Diamond Distributor Awards, and the CGNA High-Performance Award. 

In recognition of his contributions, Cochrane was honored with the CGNA Leadership Award in 2012 and again in 2021, highlighting his strategic insight, industry expertise, and commitment to the growth of the Controls Group North America (CGNA) network.  

Family and friends remember Don Jr. as a devoted husband, father, and brother who cared deeply for his loved ones. He had a passion for maintaining family traditions, taking trips to northern Michigan, and creating special memories with his family. His dry wit, wisdom, and practical nature will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

Don Jr.’s legacy will live on through his wife Stephanie, his daughters Carol, Katie, and Maggie, his brother Scott (Allison), his sister Kristin Born (David), and his 20 nieces and nephews. His presence will forever be felt in the office of Cochrane Supply, in the industry he helped shape, and in the hearts of those who loved him. 

Though Don has left us too soon, his impact on his family, Cochrane Supply, and the smart building automation industry will resonate for generations to come. We are deeply grateful for his life and his legacy. 

Rest in peace, Don Cochrane Jr. You will always be remembered and cherished.