Jerome (Jerry) Kocher, 73, of Rapid City, passed away on September 23rd, 2020 at Monument Health in Rapid City. He will always be remembered as a loving and dedicated family man.
Jerry was born in Aberdeen, SD to Blazetus and Anna Marie (Reinbold) Kocher on May 3rd, 1947. At the age of 6, he and his family moved to Rapid City. He graduated from Rapid City Central High School in 1965. He was a devoutly religious man and, through Bible study, met the love of his life, Elaine Thomas. They married on May 12th, 1984 in Roscoe, SD, and had four children. He was strongly dedicated to his family and provided for them by working as a custodian, most notably for Rapid City Area School District for 24.5 years. He retired in 2012 to pursue his passions in life.
He spent a majority of his free time doing activities with his children. He became involved with the Boy Scouts because of his three sons, holding many positions including Scoutmaster. He received the District Merit Award in 2005 and the Medal of Merit in 2007. He also was a member of Cursillo, Right to Life, and Saint Therese, the Little Flower Church. He was recognized for noble achievement and outstanding performance in saving the life of a fellow citizen on June 5th, 2006.
Jerry is survived by his wife Elaine, his children: Keveana Jo and her husband Kevin Carter, James Kocher, John Kocher and his wife Jenny Um, Joseph Kocher, and Regina Kocher; his grandchildren: Dailen and Gareth Carter, and Troy Kocher. He is preceded in death by his parents Blazetus and Anna Marie, and his sister Loraine Smith.
