Darlene H. Cochran, a bus industry veteran and passionate industry advocate, died Oct. 10, 2024, following a battle with pulmonary fibrosis. She was 84.
Cochran’s career spanned more than four decades, beginning in 1973 when she accompanied her sister to apply for a school bus driving position at Pinetree, where she unexpectedly applied herself. Within a year, she was promoted to a sales role, marking the start of her rise through the company.
Over the years, Cochran’s leadership propelled her to the roles of Vice President of Sales, General Manager, and eventually Vice President with the company. She remained with the charter division of California Charter following Pinetree’s acquisition by Laidlaw, later retiring in 2014 under Coach USA/Pacific Coast Sightseeing.
Known for her commitment to the bus industry, Cochran served multiple terms as President of the California Bus Association (CBA), where her leadership was widely respected. Her colleagues noted her willingness to voice her opinions and advocate for industry improvements. She was well-regarded by her employees, who trusted her guidance and admired her depth of knowledge on complex issues facing the industry,
“Darlene portrayed a sense of trust to the employees she managed. Her keen ability to resolve issues facing her each day was due to her knowledge of the many facets of the bus industry,” said longtime friend, Dan Eisentrager, former owner of All West Coachlines in Sacramento, California.
Mike Waters, Senior Director of Partnership Development for Coach USA and Megabus, describes Cochran as a strong leader, who couldn’t be intimidated.
“The thing that really frames her career is that she could stand toe-to-toe with any man and come away with a new friend and a resolution to the discussion. She really showed any woman that saw her in action that “yes…… I can do that!” said Waters.
During her retirement, Cochran enjoyed spending time with her family in California and Montana, always remaining close to those she loved. An avid Dodgers fan, she continued to cheer for the team in her final days.
“Our mother was a go-getter, leaving a legacy of hard work, dedication, and the importance of relationships with everyone she met,” said her daughter, Carrie Entenmann. “My brothers and I are blessed to have been raised by such a giving mom.”
Cochran’s funeral will be held Saturday, Nov. 2, at St. Cornelius Catholic Church, 5500 E. Wardlow Road, Long Beach, Calif. A Rosary will be recited at noon, with the funeral service following at 12:30 p.m. A reception will take place in the church hall afterward.
The family requests donations in Cochran’s memory to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation at pulmonaryfibrosis.org.
