Edward E. ""Eddie"" Kochman

Edward Eugene Kochman (affectionately known by family and friends as Eddie), 73, passed away on May 16, 2016 in Fairplay, Colorado. Eddie was born to Edward C. Kochman and Louise Kochman on July 17, 1942 in Salida Colorado. Eddie grew up fishing and hunting in Salida and learned to love the outdoors from an early age. Eddie went to junior College in Pueblo and then transferred to Colorado State University where he earned his bachelor and master's degree in Aquatic Life Biology. On December 20th, 1965, Eddie married Beatrice ""Babbie"" Morin, his truest love for 50 years. They had two sons Alan and Ben. Eddie started his long and distinguished career with the Division of Wildlife in 1967. He was initially employed as a wildlife conservation officer and worked in Akron Colorado in this capacity for 4 years. One of his biggest accomplishments while in Akron was to raise awareness and facilitate the cleaning of the residual oil pits that were killing thousands of water fowl in the area. In his time with the division he worked with people like Don Domenick (Wildlife photographer) to challenge established institutions and thought. He created novel and ground breaking programs for wildlife and water that continues to improve the lives of people and the environment to this day. He transferred to the Denver Division of Wildlife office in 1972 to work as the State Aquatic Life Manager and retired in this capacity. Respected by people of all walks of life he worked tirelessly to make a difference for the state and the people he loved. One of his larger projects included the Ten Mile River project where he worked with the highway department to reclaim the river's biological balance and structure enhancing the fishing experience. He worked closely with Trout Unlimited among other organizations to advance the cause of environmental responsibility and improve fish habitats throughout Colorado. Once he retired the real work began. He served on multiple committees, research projects and groups to improve the environment, fisheries, streams and political environment within the state. Eddie was never idle. He spent his days in the garage or garden or playing with his grandchildren. His only passion greater than the outdoors was his family. His grandchildren will always remember him for his sage advice and offers to ""put them to work on the Cabin"". The cabin he built with Babbie and his sons in Fairplay was his refuge. He loved to fish and hunt as well as tinker around the property, building sheds and filling them as well as making his own fish refuge in the river. His sons will always cherish the many hunting and fishing trips they shared throughout their lives, as well as the legacy he left behind. His final day was spent working with friends in Fairplay, Colorado to hold a mine accountable for the damage that occurred due to a containment issue. Eddie is survived by his wife Beatrice, his 2 sons, Alan and Ben and their wives Charlotte and Dana, and his 4 grandchildren Cassie, Grace, Sydney and Toren; his cousins Kevin Haffey, Eddie Lee Haffey and Larry Haffey. Our Beloved husband, father, friend will be sorely missed. A Recitation of the Rosary will be held on Thursday May 26, at 7:00pm at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 11385 Grant Drive, Northglenn, Colorado. A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, May 27, at 10:30am at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 11385 Grant Drive, Northglenn, Colorado. Please share you memories of Eddie and condolences with his family by visiting the guestbook below.