Matthew Cocharo

Matthew Cocharo of Cedaredge, Colorado passed peacefully on December 28, 2024. Matt was a cherished father, grandfather, brother, Uncle Buddy to his family, and a good friend to many. His life was defined by his relationship with his sons, his passion for fly fishing, the great outdoors, and his work as a hard rock miner.

Matt spent his early years in Leadville, Colorado where he began his career as a hard rock miner and started his family. Matt was an active part of the Leadville community through his work with Lake County Search and Rescue, Mine Rescue, the Boy Scout Program and a regular participant in the Annual Boom Days Mining Competitions. During his 20+ years in Leadville Matt enjoyed fishing, skiing, fishing, 4-wheeling, fishing, camping, fishing, hunting and most of all, fishing with his boys.

In 2003 Matt made the life-changing decision to move to Livingston, Montana to fulfill his lifelong dream of living amidst the majestic landscapes of Big Sky Country. It was here that he found his “nirvana” and where he truly thrived, surrounded by the pristine waters and rugged beauty of every fly fisherman’s dream.

Spending most of his working years as a hard rock miner, Matt was a man of resilience and hard work. His heart, however, belonged to the trout streams of the Rocky Mountains where he devoted his retirement years to mastering the art of fly fishing and tying flies. His innovative techniques and intricate creations became legendary among his fellow anglers who admired his dedication and craftsmanship.

Matt is survived by his loving sons, Scott and Dan (Tori) Cocharo, his beloved grandchildren, Brandon and Abigail, his brother Mike (Mary) Cocharo, his sister Tricia (Joe) Majestic, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. To his family, he leaves a legacy of perseverance, joy in life's simple pleasures, and a life-long connection to the great outdoors.

Matt will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. As his family and friends honor his memory, they find solace in the knowledge that he now rests peacefully in the place he loved most, amidst the rivers and mountains of Montana.