Michael's interest in funeral service began at an early age, with his father's work as a salesman and owner of a funeral supply company. While that work was interesting, Michael say the importance of funeral directors and embalmers working with families to properly honor their loved ones.
When asked what helped Michael decide to become part of the Cochran family, Michael said, "Cochran Mortuary's long standing reputation of exemplary service to the Wichita Community as well as being an independant, family owned funeral home was the deciding factor in my reentry to funeral service following my brief retirement."
Michael has served the community in various ways, in and out of the funeral service profession. He is a member of the National and Kansas Funeral Director's Associations and has served as a state district president for two terms. He has also served on several state committees associated with KFDA. Michael is also very involved in Masonic organizations, being a member of Fidelity Lodge #106 in Eureka, Wichita Consistory and Scottish Rite Bodies and the Midian Shrine, of which he served as the organization's 92nd Potentate in 2001. He is a member or associate of numerous shrine clubs and units throughout Midian's 32 county jurisdiction in South Central and Southwest Kansas. He currently serves as Recorder (Executive Secretary) of the Shrine, and is a member of the Royal Order of the Jesters.
Michael and Kris have two sons, Collin, an Executive Chef in Denver, Colorado and Ian, a high school student at home in Wichita. They attend Asbury United Methodist Church.
