William "Willie" Henry Cockrell was born June 26, 1956, in Portland, OR, and died on December 19, 2021, in Brush, CO, at the age of 65. His parents Kathleen Irene Benjamin and Donald Leon Cockrell, raised him in Oregon where he learned to love the ocean and the outdoors. Willie also enjoyed the game of chess growing up and in the eighth grade was ranked as the number one player in the state. Following school, he spent some time in the military serving in both the Army and the Air Force. Willie worked in construction in his younger years, even having done some work for the evangelist Jimmy Baker. Later, Willie entertained his interest in travel as he became an over-the-road truck driver, delivering in all 48 of the contiguous United States throughout his career.

On July 4, 1987, William married the love of his life, Kathy Cockrell, who fell in love with his dazzling blue eyes and kind heart. Willie enjoyed woodworking, camping, fishing, gardening, baking, music, and time with his family. He loved the Oregon coast where he spent many wonderful times with his wife. Willie loved telling stories and easily made friends with everyone he met. He was the peacekeeper in his family. Willie and Kathy often offered a hand to anyone in need.

Willie was the oldest of nine and is survived by his siblings, Kathryn Wing, Gwendolyn Benton, Donald Cockrell, Kristina Folks, Joe Cockrell, Suzan Cockrell Shaw, and Julia Kelley. Willie is also survived by his daughters, Barbara Hudson and Shawn Deuel, son-in-law Jerry Deuel, many nieces and nephews, nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his brother, Mark Cockrell, his father, Donald Cockrell, his daughter, Virginia Graham, his grandson, Christopher Hammond, his wife, Kathy Cockrell, and his grandparents.

Though Willie will be greatly missed by his family and friends, no public services are planned at this time. Willie's remains will be spread with his wife's ashes in a private service on July 4, 2022, in Oregon. Kathy and Willie had both made this their final wish so they could spend eternity on the beach together. Flowers may be sent to the family at 830 Meeker St., Fort Morgan, CO, 80701.