Gary Kocher

He was one of a handful of teachers who really left a lasting impression. I'm sure he connected with many more children as he did me. Andy Wyatt

To the family of Gary Kocher:

I graduated Sylvania Northview 35 years ago...
To this day I remember Mr. Kocher as one of the all-time great teachers. I had him for Biology as a 10th grader and remember him for his bright-eyed, daily enthusiastic approach toward teaching. I specifically remember him teaching us how to study from a text book by reading one page and then going back to the page before in a very well disciplined manner (as well as how to open a new book without...

Gary was the finest high school Science teacher and I had and I crush him and on his character. He commanded each student to pass through personal attention to each student in his class. His way of teaching biology lessons changed my life forever , not just out of a book but demanding a higher level of understanding. He was a giving man and a kind man, and will greatly be missed.

Dear Kocher Family,
I am sorry for your loss. Gary was my AP Biology teacher as a senior at Northview (1997). It was by far my favorite class and greatly influenced me to pursue a degree in microbiology in college. He had a clear passion for what he did and more importantly a passion for his students. I know he will be deeply missed by all who knew him and by you most especially.

Paul Haddix

I will always remember Mr. Kocher fondly as the reason I chose to become a scientist and will never be able to think about osmosis without also thinking of him--and poor Dirk the fish! His zest for life and curiosity about science were contagious (I loved when he blurted out "ooh, neat!" while we were taking tests in his class). Mr. Kocher had a rare gift of being completely professional and irreverent at the same time and he was able to get the absolute best from his students because of it....

Mr. Kocher was one of my favorite teachers and was a big influence on my decision to become a doctor. I wish I could have thanked him in person. My condolences to Gary's family.

Mr. Kocher always made learning fun and interesting. His passion for science was inspirational and helped me find my career in medicine.

Mr. Kocher was a wonderful teacher who forced students to be their best. I think he had us do a 20 page paper cited in APA in the 10th grade. Awesome!

THE best teacher I ever had, bar none.

Ryan Crockett