Parker Hawkins Cochell

Parker Hawkins Cochell
Written by Perry L. Cochell, Father

Parker Hawkins Cochell of Bountiful, Utah passed away of natural causes February 5, 2021. He was born October 19, 1979 in Mesa, Arizona. As a child Parker demonstrated a high degree of intelligence and always performed well in school. Like his mother, Karen Cochell, math and numbers were second nature to him. Parker was very social and made friends easily. If someone became his friend, such an individual became his friend for life.

In Junior Highschool Parker exhibited a gift for music as he began learning to play the tenor saxophone. He then taught himself to play the guitar, a hobby which he continued until his passing.

Parkers favorite hobby, however, was fly fishing. As a young boy he out fished his cousins and uncles. His favorite fishing spots were along the Payette River in McCall, Idaho, just downstream from his grandparents’ cabin.

Parker was an active boy scout. He served as his troop’s Senior Patrol leader and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, with 3 eagles palms. He attended the 1994 National Jamboree and worked 3 summers at Camp Morrison in McCall, Idaho.

On January 13, 1998 Parker enlisted in the Navy. After scoring perfectly on the entrance exam he was selected to be in the Navy’s Nuclear Engineering program. He chose, however, to attend Groton, Connecticut submarine school. He studied there approximately 18 months. He became a Radio Frequency Equipment Operator and was granted a high security clearance, as he received all communication for the ship’s captain. He was stationed at Pearl Harbor where he was honorably discharged following 4 years of service.

Upon returning back to civilian life, Parker embarked on the pursuit of his education. He received a bachelor of Science Degree in Finance followed by an MBA with an emphasis in Project Management.

On Easter Sunday in 2004, Parker invited Tara Evans for a date. The common thread of their acquaintance was a new born baby, “Libby” Evans. Libby was both a niece to Parker and to Tara. Parker teased Tara that he was dating “my nieces aunt.” On September 19, 2004 Parker and Tara solemnized their marriage in the Mesa, Arizona Temple. Together, Parker and Tara were a constant source of love, support, and strength to their extended family.

Parker and Tara loved pets. They have 3 dogs; Reed, Bosco, and Scooter. The family often teased Parker about Reed, who was forever by his side, that Parker was Reed’s support person.

Parker lived and loved to be with his family and friends. His Nieces and Nephews ALWAYS received his undivided attention when they visited. His heart was willing to love whoever he met. His ministry in life was to feel after those who struggled, suffered, and felt abandoned and lonely.

Parker leaves behind his beloved wife, Tara; His parents Perry and Karen Cochell, his sisters Camille Gould, Laura Evans, and Rachel Shaw. His brother Tanner Cochell; His mother-in-law Ginger Evans; His brother-in-law Jeff Evans and Tyler Evans, and his 15 Nieces and Nephews

Interment services will be held at 12 pm February 9 at 17111 South Camp Williams Road Bluffdale, Utah, all are invited to attend.

A Private Family Memorial Service will be held at the Cochell home, 54 Bountiful Boulevard Bountiful, Utah at 2:15 pm February 9.  For further information, contact Perry Cochell 385-222-1191 or at perrylcochell.com

Services will also be available by zoom at this link:  https://utah.zoom.us/j/8428868814?pwd=VnBEUjdlc2hyazRlYkloaDhGSzBYUT09