Obituaries Australia

John Cochrane, 1929

Herald (Melbourne), 2 November 1929, p 10

Labor lost one of its most ardent and enthusiastic workers last week when Mr. J. A. [John Andrews] Cochrane, died at his home at Charles St., Abbotsford. He was one of those who did the "spade" work for the movement and undoubtedly aided to bring Labor to its present high standing in the community.

The late Mr. Cochrane was a pioneer in the move for slum abolition, and nothing was too hard for him when it came to working in the interests of those who, perforce of circumstances, had to live in hovels.

Possessing a remarkably jovial disposition "Johnny," as he was familiarly known, was always ready to joke, and he never complained during his long illness, but went about his daily duties with a smile.

In fact, he was at the last Easter Conference of the A.L.P., and although warned not to climb stairs, managed to mount the stone steps leading to the Council Chamber.

He rejected an offer of assistance when he was seen to pause half-way up the stairs, and "cracked a joke."

"Johnny" created a furore some years ago, when he secured the good wishes of the Duke of Windsor, then Prince of Wales, who became a patron of the Bill Posters' Union, of which the late Mr. Cochrane was secretary.

At the last meeting of the Trades Hall Council President Katz reported that Del. Cochrane had died that day. The deceased had been a very active member of the Council and of his union during his lifetime.

He was one of the pioneers of the movement, and was well respected by all sections of the community for the work he had done in this connection.

All delegates stood in silence for one minute as a tribute of respect to the memory of the dead, and in sympathy with the bereaved relatives.

As the cortege passed towards the Coburg cemetery on Friday last it paused outside of Messrs. J. McAlpine and Son's and the Trades Hall. There were many representatives of the Labor movement present at the graveside and many floral tributes were received.