About Joe Cocking

Joseph Cocking History

Joseph “Joe” Cocking was a devoted husband, father, coach, and lifelong hockey enthusiast who believed deeply in the power of community, mentorship, and showing up for others.

Joe was happily married to his wife, Nancy, for 37 years. Together, they built a life centered on family, laughter, and shared experiences. He was the proud father of three children, two of whom have played or continue to play hockey, carrying forward his love for the game and the values it instilled.

While hockey was a defining part of Joe’s life, it was far from the only thing that brought him joy. He loved riding his motorcycle, traveling, and spending meaningful time with family and friends. Whether on the ice, on the road, or gathered with loved ones, Joe was known for his energy, generosity, and ability to make people feel welcome.

Joe’s legacy lives on through the countless players he coached, the relationships he built, and the values he passed down — both within his family and throughout the hockey community.

Joe Cocking skating with his daughter, Lori Highby, and son-in-law, Andy Highby, in the Milwaukee Community Hockey League.

Goal of the Fund

Annually fund at least one (Wisconsin area) player's fees from each division (Mini-mites, Mites, Squirts, Peewees, Bantam, High School, and College) to provide them with the joy of hockey without some of the financial burdens it may cause to families.

Donations can be made via check or online. All donations are tax-deductible in accordance with federal tax law.

Receipts for tax purposes are sent via US Mail within two weeks of donation. Please consider if asking if your employer participates in a gift-matching program.

If so, your donation may be matched by your employer.

“Joe didn’t just coach hockey. He built confidence, character, and community, one player at a time.”

Joe Cocking as a midget with SHAW hockey.

Joe Cocking’s Hockey Career

Player & Early Coach

- Began playing hockey at age 4

- Played SHAW Hockey through his teenage years (Milwaukee, WI)

- Began coaching with SHAW Hockey at age 17

Coaching Experience (Illinois)

- Northwest Chargers

- Schaumburg Kings

- St. Viator High School

Coaching Experience (Wisconsin)

- Wauwatosa East High School

- Pettit Youth Hockey

- Marquette University Club Hockey (ACHA)

Pettit Center Leadership

- Founder of the Adult Hockey Camp at the Pettit National Ice Center, creating opportunities for adult players to learn, improve, and stay connected to the game

- ACE Coordinator for Hockey at the Pettit Center, supporting athlete development and program growth across skill levels

Refereeing & Broader Hockey Involvement

- Refereed hockey on and off the ice for many years

- Involved with the Milwaukee Admirals and Chicago Wolves hockey communities

- Played on numerous adult recreational hockey teams

Mission & Vision

The Mission of the fund is to allow more kids to experience the joy of ice hockey. Our vision is that deserving youth will have the ability to play hockey without having to worry about the financial aspect of the sport.