Joseph Martin Cocanougher, 70, of Lusby, Maryland, passed away peacefully at home on April 13, 2024.
To those who had met and known him as Joe, his spirit and character were beyond the simple name. He was a sociable, charismatic, and exuberant individual. He never met a stranger.
Joe was born to James Marr Cocanougher and Martha Elizabeth Grundy on January 6, 1954. His father instilled in him and all his siblings these things: Go to school, get a good education, get a respectable job, take care of yourself, and be independent and accountable, which he passed along to his children.
Joseph grew up in Springfield, Kentucky with his siblings: Billy Wakefield (Mary C.), Patricia Reed, Lucinda, Bernadette Porter, Gene (Marcia), Steve (Ada) and Elizabeth Coleman (Hillary).
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by Mary (twin sister), Bonnie and James Porter.
In his prime, he lived and worked in Heidelberg, Germany where he met his true love, Mariebeth Generalao Cocanougher of 35 years. In 2001, they relocated to Lusby, Maryland where they had a fulfilling life together with their children: Robinson Generalao (Lizette), Pia Myers (George), Ruby Generalao and Lyka Cocanougher (Jeremiah Felder), Christian Donesa, William and Fritz Gemperle. He proudly took the role of and title of “Opa” to their wonderful grandchildren: Elijah JM, Zaileigh, Sydney, Louanne, Leland, Hayden, Kendra, Kesha, Kendall, and Kenzo. Nieces: Chris, Felicia, Ciara, Desiree; Nephews: Chase, Jordan, Cassius; Great Nephews: Rashan, Darius, TJ, Christian, and James.
In 2012, the whole family witnessed the ceremony where Dad obtained his Master of Science degree in Information Technology from University of Maryland University College. He retired as a contractor for the US Government. He worked with unwavering dedication and commitment to his work to provide for his family.
His greatest pastime was taking care of his yard and riding his John Deere mower with his grandson Eli for hours.
Special thanks to Dr. Sood (St. Mary’s Hospital), Hospice of the Chesapeake, Cheryl Hoyle (Home Health Nurse, and Paul Uher (family friend).
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Dennis Vella
April 21 – Obituary: Joseph Martin Cocanougher
Joe and I were like brothers in Germany, working together and hanging out on our off time. It is sad we that we kind of lost touch after we returned to the States although we spoke a few times throughout the years. He was a great and thoughtful man. I was saddened by his passing. He will be remembered and missed by many.
Sharon Young and William Young and family.
April 18 – Obituary: Joseph Martin Cocanougher
Prayers to Joe and family his family always so nice to me and my family and always had a smile on his face.
Patty
April 18 – Obituary: Joseph Martin Cocanougher
Joe got Felicia and I through a lot. Rest in peace bro. I love you so much. When James came along, he fell in love with his great uncle. You are at peace now. We will take good care of Mariebeth. We promise!!!
Steve Sadler
April 18 – Obituary: Joseph Martin Cocanougher
As his neighbor, I regularly saw Joe outside working in his yard. We had many talks and we helped each other with outdoor projects. Joe was always helpful and pleasant. He was a great neighbor! I’ll miss him!
He was a great family man and was always thinking of his family. He instilled in his family members the knowledge and values he put to use over his lifetime. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family as they continue with their lives.
Steve Sadler
George Myers
April 17 – Obituary: Joseph Martin Cocanougher
Joe touched so many lives in the very best way, he warmly welcomed me into his family and was a shining example of what a great Husband, Father and Grandfather should be, I am so very grateful to have known him. Rest in Peace Opa, we love you.
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