Joan Erna Cochilla (nee Losche) , 88, passed away peacefully at her home in Watchung, New Jersey on February 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on December 20, 1937, in Queens, New York, Joan was the daughter of the late Hans Losche and Marie Losche Robinson (nee Fitzgerald).  She was raised in Queens and Brooklyn before residing in the New Market section of Piscataway and in Belle Mead with her family, including her mother's second husband, the late Harvey Robinson. Sixty two years ago, she married the love of her life, Stephen Cochilla.  Together, they built a life that brought them to Bound Brook, and then to Dunellen, where they lived from 1968 to 1985, before finally settling in Watchung in 1985. There, Joan and Stephen became an active and cherished part of the community.

Joan was known for her strong work ethic throughout her life.  She began her career at Union Carbide, where she processed orders for the Plastics Division.  She later worked as a typist for Moore's Trucking Company and D&S Express, and most recently for HouseMaster, a home inspection company in Bound Brook, where she served in sales until her retirement in 1990.

In her spare time, Joan found great joy in decorating her home and gardening alongside her husband. Together, they loved traveling, especially enjoying vacations to New England and trips to the Jersey shore. 

Joan was predeceased by her beloved son, Michael; and her sisters, Marilyn Turlip of Belle Mead, Lorraine Sauber of Princeton, Veronica Williams of Monmouth Junction, Carol Losche of Belle Mead, and Elissa Butler of Belle Mead.  She is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years Stephen; her son Brian of Bedminster; her brother Bruce Robinson, and his wife, Sandy of Ewing; and several nieces and nephews.

Cremation services will be held privately.