She was born on July 14, 1935, in Iowa City, Iowa, to Burt and June (Meyers) Wall. Connie graduated from Moline High School in 1952 and completed her Registered Nursing degree at Moline Public Hospital.
In 1955, Connie married her love, Mike Cocking. In September they would have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. Together they raised four daughters. She began her nursing career in Erie, Illinois, working for Dr. Robert LaRue. Later, she moved to Illini Hospital, where she spent many years working in the operating room. Connie was well known in her hometown as the “community nurse,” taking routine blood pressures, administering insulin injections, and even using Merthiolate to paint sore throats.
Connie and Mike also owned and operated The Other Place for 17 years. A highlight was The Other Place softball team bringing home a first-place state trophy.
Upon retirement, Connie and Mike moved to Maryville, Tennessee, where they enjoyed life on Tellico Lake. They spent their time boating, golfing, and exploring the Smoky Mountains while hosting family and friends. In later years, they wintered in Englewood, Florida, where they spent their last years together.
Connie and Mike shared a passion for dancing, often clearing the dance floor with their waltzing and jitterbug moves to the music of big bands. Their love for dancing extended into their home, where it was common to see them dancing in their living room, much to the delight of their daughters.
Connie was an avid reader and enjoyed her women’s golf league. She loved following her children’s sports and activities and was a fierce competitor when it came to playing train dominoes and cards with her kids. She was a diehard and loyal Iowa Hawkeye fan.
Connie’s positive and upbeat personality, charisma, and love for life left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was known for her creativity and wit, and for always leaving a conversation with a warm, “love you much.” She will be dearly missed by those who were lucky enough to know her.
Connie was preceded in death by her beloved husband Mike, her parents, her sister Cheryl Lindsey, and her brother Jerry Wall. She is survived by four daughters: Beth (Roger) Jenkins of Kansas, Gayle Raab of Erie, Sondra (George) Braden of Sherrard, and Shelly Hoefling of Kansas. She leaves behind 10 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, as well as many extended family members and friends.
Per Connie’s wishes, her interment will be at the Erie Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Erie United Methodist Church.
The Cremation Society of Kansas City, 14553 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kansas City, MO, is assisting the family.
