William D. Cochran
William D. Cochran | |
|---|---|
| Born | William Duscharme Cochran March 22, 1894 Houghton, Michigan, U.S. |
| Died | December 5, 1951 (aged 57) Iron Mountain, Michigan, U.S. |
| Other names | "Pink Cheeks" |
| Occupation(s) | Collegiate football player, businessman, banker |
| Years active | 1913–1915 (football), later business and banking career |
| Known for | Captain of 1915 Michigan Wolverines football team, director and deputy chairman of Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis |
William Duscharme, known by the nickname "Pink Cheeks" Cochran (March 22, 1894 – December 5, 1951), was an American collegiate football athlete who played both guard and tackle positions for the University of Michigan between 1913 and 1915. He earned recognition as a first-team All-Western lineman and led the 1915 Michigan Wolverines football team as its captain. Following his athletic career, Cochran managed a freight trucking business in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and held a directorship at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis from 1936 until 1950, including a five-year tenure as deputy chairman.
Early years
Originating from Houghton, located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Cochran distinguished himself in football at Houghton High School and was also the regional champion in shot put and discus events.
University of Michigan
While pursuing studies in the College of Pharmacy, Cochran was a regular starter at tackle or guard for Fielding H. Yost’s Michigan football squads from 1913 through 1915. His teammates affectionately called him "Pink Cheeks." He became a pivotal lineman on the 1914 roster, with Spalding's Official Foot Ball Guide naming him among three standout players on that team, commending his physical stature and football intelligence.
Selected unanimously to captain the team in 1915, Cochran received acclaim for his defensive prowess and effectiveness in creating running lanes. Walter Eckersall of the Chicago Daily Tribune honored him with first-team All-Western distinction.
By his senior year, Cochran measured 5 feet 8 inches and weighed approximately 235 pounds, having notably increased his mass since the previous season—a change he humorously credited to ginger ale consumption. This added bulk facilitated his transition from tackle to guard. Beyond football, he also participated in ice hockey and track competitions during his time at Michigan.
Later years
Upon completing his degree, Cochran returned to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula where he owned William D. Cochran Freight Lines based in Iron Mountain, Michigan. Additionally, he served on the board of directors for the Commercial Bank. In 1936, he expanded his freight business by acquiring a motor freight operation in Minnesota that connected to Ontonagon, Rockland, Calumet, and surrounding communities. That same year marked his appointment as a director of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. After eight years as a Class C director, he advanced to deputy chairman from 1946 until 1950. Cochran passed away at his residence in Iron Mountain on December 5, 1951.
In recognition of his athletic accomplishments, he was inducted into the Upper Peninsula Sports Hall of Fame in 1998.