Obituary of Theresa Jane Cockerton

Theresa J. Cockerton Theresa died Saturday evening, May 6, 2017, at Nelson Manor Health Care in Newton. Theresa Jane Cockerton, 60, the first of three children, was born January 12, 1957 to parents Robert Joseph and Hope Lynnette (Hotchkin) Cockerton. She was born at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. During her high school years Theresa was employed at Terrace Inn. Making lifelong friends and serving customers were her specialty. She was friendly to all, no one was a stranger to her. Theresa graduated from Newton High School, Class of 1975. She received a Maytag Career Award to attend Des Moines Area Community College in Ankeny. Her dreams included graduating and moving to the sunny state of California. In the summer of 1976, while Theresa was attending DMACC she was diagnosed with a Glioblastoma multiform level 3 brain tumor. Forging ahead after surgery, radiation and rehabilitation Theresa didn't let cancer stop her. In April, 1985 a son Matthew was born. Matthew was the light of her life. Always loving and caring for him. As years went by Theresa moved to Nelson Manor, making it her home for 12 years. While there she earned the nickname of "Trixie". Theresa, dancing with Matthew while in her wheel chair at Matthew and Kelly's wedding was a highlight that left no dry eyes in the room. After the birth her grandson Cale, Theresa lit up with joy and gave all the love she had to him. She was a collector of many things including coins, plates and many, many friendships. Theresa was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Theresa is survived by her son and daughter-in-law Matthew and Kelly Cockerton of Carlisle; her grandson Cale Joseph James Cockerton; her father Robert "Bob" Cockerton of Newton; a sister Julie (Stephen) Ostdiek of St. Joseph, Michigan; her brother Kirk (Julie) Cockerton of Newton; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and her many good neighbors and friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, Hope L. Cockerton on April 2, 2015. A time of remembrance and celebration of life will be held 3p.m. until 6p.m., Saturday, May 13, 2017, at the Pence – Reese Funeral Home in Newton. Burial will be at a later date in the Palo Alto Cemetery, rural Newton. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, memorials may be left to Theresa's family or a charity of your choosing.