Cole M. Bockman, 47, of Perryville, died Sunday, January 11, 2026, at his residence.
He was born October 2, 1978, in Perryville, the beloved son of Laura (Graff) Armbruster and Erv Armbruster.
Cole was a treasured brother, son, uncle, cousin, nephew, and grandson who left this world far too soon. He was a man whose heart was bigger than his own pain — someone who cared deeply for others even while facing his own struggles.
Throughout his life, he carried his share of troubles and quietly battled depression, a weight he bore with more strength than many ever realized. Despite this, he showed up for others with kindness, loyalty, and an open heart. He was the kind of person who would give his last dollar, his last bit of energy, or his last moment of comfort if it meant helping someone else.
His compassion was not loud or boastful; it was steady, sincere, and real. To those who knew him well, he was more than his hardships. He was thoughtful, protective, and deeply loving.
He was fun and social and enjoyed soccer, the outdoors, and rooting for the Chiefs. He loved reading, video games, and comics, and he enjoyed sharing his passions with others.
He is survived by those who loved him deeply and will carry his memory forward.
While his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his kindness, generosity, and love will continue to live on in the lives he touched. We remember him not for the battles he fought, but for the heart he shared.
We know he is now at peace, and may we honor him by extending the same compassion to others that he so freely gave. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Survivors include his parents, Erv and Laura Armbruster; three brothers, Adam (Christy) Bockman, Alex (Kristin) Armbruster, and Drew (Julie) Armbruster; grandmother, Faye Graff; nieces and nephews, Alexandria and William Armbruster, Theo, Mitzie, and Freddy Bockman, and Brooks and Vinny Armbruster; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his biological father, Mark Bockman; maternal grandfather, Ted Graff; paternal grandparents, Wallace and Doris Bockman; maternal great-grandmother, Lucille Whistler; and paternal grandparents, Frank and Marie Armbruster.
Visitation was held from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Ford & Young Funeral Home in Perryville and continued from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Monday, January 19, 2026, at the funeral home.
A funeral Mass was held at 10 a.m. Monday, January 19, 2026, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Perryville, with Rev. Joe Geders C.M. officiating.
Burial was in Mount Hope Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Schools General Fund or New Life Mission Inn.
Online condolences may be made at www.fordandyoungfuneralhome. com.
Ford & Young Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
