Cole M. Bockman, 47, died Sunday, January 11, 2026. He passed away peacefully at his residence in Perryville.
He was born October 2, 1978, in Perryville, MO, 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 when he faced 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, social, and enjoyed soccer, the outdoors, and rooting for the Chiefs. He loved reading, video games, and comics. 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, Drew (Julie) Armbruster; grandmother, Faye Graff; nieces & nephews, Alexandria & William Armbruster, Theo, Mitzie, & Freddy Bockman, Brooks & 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 & Doris Bockman; maternal great-grandmother, Lucille Whistler; paternal grandparents, Frank & Marie Armbruster.
Visitation will be from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Ford & Young Funeral Home in Perryville and will continue from 8:00 am to 9:30 am on Monday, January 19, 2026, at the funeral home.
Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am Monday, January 19, 2026, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Perryville with Rev. Joe Geders C.M. officiating.
Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be given 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 is in charge of arrangements