Dr. Cochran interviewed me for admission to HMS. He was a navy pilot and I had been a Pan Am flight attendant, and when we found that common ground, we had an interview I will never forget. I ended up in residency at Beth Israel and saw him now and then; each time to my delight. He was a special man with fans everywhere and a magical way of engaging with his great stories. He was a gift.

I only knew Will socially, not professionally. His rich and varied life-experiences were a fount of material for his wonderful stories, always told with amusement, self-depreciation, and love of his audience. In a gathering, he wanted to make everyone feel included. Storytelling was his way to do that.

Cochran was our ultimate mentor- beyond fellowship and in 30 years at HMS and Neonatology, he was the one who made us physicians - how to learn from infants and families and how to compassionately give care. There was no one better or more important, and we are unlikely to see someone like this again. Not to mention catching stripas!  We loved and revered this man in every way.

Will was one of a kind!
My practice as a NNP at BIDMC was possible because of him and so many others! Ditto to all the comments that describe this exceptional man. I have been so blessed to have him as a mentor and friend. My condolences to his family and all of us who will miss him. He will never be forgotten.