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JOEL HOCHMAN Obituary
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for JOEL HOCHMAN
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Trisha Sager
September 15, 2025
Dr.Joel S.Hochman,
Thank you for helping me.
You were a very thoughtful good doctor.
You helped me to be able to get through very difficult times due to the disease I had.
Remembering what a beautiful person you were.
Your love and commitment to humanity to help others will always be remembered.
With much gratitude.
Trisha Sager
Rodney Ray Snell
January 15, 2025
Gone but never forgotten, we speak of you often. My children were 3 and 4 when they meet Dr. Cochran, he called kids eaten-ups. They would run in and give him a hug when ever we had a visit. We speak of him often. Never forgotten. A good person! Empathy rarley found in any doctor! He cared! He showed he cared!
Never forgotten. We both had tumors on our kidney, his left and my right. Mine found early by a MRI he sent me too get for my back. He hadnt written what the MRI was for, so they found it looking. . I knew for sure mine would kill me. It didnt. Thanks to him in many ways.
My kids were 12 and 14 when he past, we all shed a few tears. Again gone but never forgotten!
John Young
January 13, 2025
Joel and I studied philosophy together at Rice University in the early 1960s and hung out as well. I was best man at his first marriage whose bride flashed a victory sign heading for the altar where a glass was tromped. We kept in touch when he attended medical school while I completed an architecture degree before I left Houston for distant lands, last half-century in New York City. We mourned the death of mutual friend Don Ramsey, a trio of ruckus lovers and performers. Joel's cutting wit was unsurpassed as the few philosophy students gathered daily at the Rice coffee shop to argue and insult. His memory is eternally a source of pleasure.
Bennie Jones
September 15, 2024
Thought of Dr. Hochman today and my husband and I starting talk about he helped me with my how kind he was but he could also look at you with the over his glasses stare when he thought you should take care of yourself better. Know that you missed and you made a difference in this world.
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Judy Travis Copek
September 13, 2023
I am always amazed and impressed by Joel's many contributions to medicine and also by what a well-rounded man he was: piloting, scuba-diving, and all his many interests and his humanitarian philosophy. I knew him as a carefree somewhat devil-may-care student at Rice, chasing girls and attending football games. We always had fun and many discussions about life and love and always about Rice. I'm so sorry that he's gone.
I have ommented before.
Sarah
September 13, 2022
You continue to be remembered and appreciated, Dr. Hochman. May God bless your family who we know are missing you.
BLAINE TE RITO
March 22, 2021
I had the pleasure of meeting Joel when he traveled here to New Zealand.
Although brief, we shared some quality time talking, me about my Maori heritage.
He took a piece of my art back to the states and we remained in contact.
Having not heard from him for awhile, I tried to track him down. I only just saw this obituary last night.
My condolences to the family.
Blaine...
Judith Travis Copek
September 17, 2019
I knew Joel at Rice University. We hung out in the coffee shop a lot, with other friends, Dennis Ashton and Honor Blanchard, among many.
Joel had wide interests and was an excellent scholar. He liked to blow off steam, too, which he did by attending Southwest Conference (RIP) games at Rice Stadium and rooting for the Owls. He also liked to dance, and drive his sporty little Triumph. We had fun going to the beach and tooling around Houston. One never realizes how precious these youthful days are until they're gone.
Bennie Jones
October 30, 2017
My back has been hurting me so and the Doctors here don't do much. I thought of Dr. Hochman and wished he was here and I would drive the six hundred miles again to see him.
I miss him as my Doctor, and one of the most interesting man my husband and I have met. I admired he founded the Foundation for Pain and contributed regular. You are missed for your pain treatment as the great man you were. Hope to see you in heaven and you can treat my back : )
I really wish Joel had been able to meet my wife Alma & vice versa. They would have loved each other.
Mike Dubose
December 20, 2016
I miss Dr. Hochman every day. He saved my life and then helped wrest it back from the monster that is intractable pain. Dr. Hochman wasn't solely my pain management physician, he and I were close friends as well. My current pain doc is the only physician that comes close to Joel, but he's a distant second. They don't make them like Joel Hochman anymore.
I wish Dr. Hochman had been able to meet my wife Alma & vice versa!
Mike Dubose
December 20, 2016
Kelly Bell
December 14, 2016
Dr. Hochman saved my life. I owe him everything.
Tammy Grice
June 18, 2015
Rest in peace Dr. Hochman. He made such a meaningful difference in so many lives, including mine, and I still feel the loss of this compassionate and wonderful man. I'm looking forward to eternity, where I can tell him again how grateful I am for the difference he made in my life by simply treating me and others with respect, kindness, and empathy. I will always miss him.
Paughnee Smith
March 25, 2015
I just found this or I would have put this in long ago. I had a previous Pain doctor before him but he became afraid of the government and the medical board. I searched for another doctor and found Dr. Hochman in late 1999. He was not afraid of the government and the medical board. He gave me what I needed and my life turned around, I was able to do things I hadn't done in a long time. I can not find another doctor like him. He tirelessly fought for people with pain.
Sarah, a grateful admirer
November 9, 2013
I thank God for the tireless advocacy of Dr. Hochman for people in intractable pain. I never had the privilege of meeting him but knowing there were people who care about people in pain as much as they care about drug abuse was a comfort. Our condolences to his family.
January 7, 2013
I was spoiled to other doctors I still have not meet a more compassionate doctor ever. I hope heaven is what you expected.
Jack Litman
January 5, 2013
Joel was my first post doc supervisor toward my psychology license. That was for about 9 months in 1979 in his Santa Fe practice. I last saw him in 1985, however I continue to have wonderful memories of our association. Coming from a counseling psychology background, Joel helped me become a clinical and forensic psychologist and expert witness all of which I still practice today. I vividly remember our offices in that refurbished bordello on the National Register. Joel was a great teacher who was always available for my frequent questions. Extraordinarily bright, he was by far and away the most captivating expert witness I've ever experienced. Daunted by the prospect of testifying at all, much less with him, he was continually reassuring in telling me to just be myself and tell the truth. Having now been in the court room well over 100 times, I'm truly indebted to his work with me. Moreover, his name continues to be proudly mentioned as I'm being qualified to speak. There were many other lighter moments with him. I was his first passenger as he worked toward his twin engine certification on our flight to Alamogordo to testify. Accompanied by his instructor, he asked why I was choosing to sit in the tail of the plane. My comment about the question being retorical was only enhanced when we flew back to Santa Fe at night after the airport had closed. I also enjoyed our occasional lunches at his co-owned Jewish deli in the town square. I could go on and on, but I will simply say, Joel you indeed were a man for all seasons and God speed to you.
Timothy Craven
June 1, 2012
I just found out about Dr Hochman's passing. I met him when I evacuated from New Orleans and he treated me for about a year.
He was the best doctor I ever met. Such a wonderful a thoughtful man. He had true conviction. The world was a better place with him...he will be missed.
RODNEY SNELL
April 9, 2012
STILL IN OUR THOUGHTS
March 31, 2012
Dear Dr.Hochmans Family,Friends, Patients,& Wonderful Staff that were so Fortunate to know such a Great Man & a Hero of a Doctor that Helped & Saved so many Lives during our time here on Earth.I just want to send my Love & Condolences to you all after now just learning of His Passing from this Life into Heavens Door.Although he
He didn't Treat my Severe Spinal Pain due to me Having to care for my Late Wife with Cancer.We spoke over the phone & thru emails.I wanted so bad to Travel to Houston from Va.I could tell He was a very Special Caring Physician I Pray someone will try to carry on The Help he gave to others.My Thoughts & Prayers are with you all.I Thank God for Dr.Hochman & all the Loving Help He brought to so many Lives During His Life Time.He was a Special Angel that will be Deeply Missed.Scott,of Dan Va.
November 13, 2011
Dr. Hochman was a brave and compassionate soul. He had true courage and did not allow 'right & wrong' to be defined by convenience. He saved the lives of many people. I am alive today because of his expert care.
September 24, 2011
He was THE ONLY DOCTOR who truly helped my daughter to manage her mental and physical pain. I hope and pray that you can spiritually continue your sincere work in God's Heaven, as you did on God's Earth. By the way, what a Resume on your Life; Impressive!
Judy Travis Copek
June 14, 2011
I knew Joel at Rice and he was always witty and energetic and focused. He tooled around in a TR3 and even at the age of twenty he had charisma and elan. We had such fun and many good conversations. So sorry that he is no longer with us.
Alan Humphrey
May 3, 2011
I was a patient of Dr. Hochman's for 10 years before finding local care. He saved my life. He was a beacon of light in a world of darkness.
March 17, 2011
I didn't know you were gone, just found out today. Kiss Aunt Lilly, Jerry, and Goldie your grandmother, for me when you get to heaven.
Paul
Jennifer Nelson
March 17, 2011
Dr. Hochman was more than a doctor to me, he and Lynn were friends. I miss talking travel with Dr. Hochman, and New York with Lynn. Dr. H was one of the most compassionate men I ever met, a true hero. I miss him everyday. He will truly be missed.
Robyn Flanery
March 16, 2011
I am proud that you are a part of my family. I wish we had been closer. Thank you so much for sending me the photos of you and Lynn on your travels. I will always love you and remember you fondly. We will be thinking of you this Jazzfest and wishing you were here with us. Love and prayers to you, Lynn, Dayan and Todd.
December 17, 2010
You helped me when I didn't think I could be helped and taught me to love and appreciate myself. You were there for our family when we needed your wisdom; not a day passes without my thinking of you and your family. There is no candle bright enough to cast the light you have brought to so many lives. Lynn, Dayan, Todd, and the other members of your family, please know we are praying for Joel and for you all. May your hearts be eased in knowing that so many respected, appreciate and loved Joel. We send our love to you. The world is a better place for his love for us, and a better one for his being here during our lives.
Ralph
November 17, 2010
I will miss Dr Hochman. He was always top notch. He helped with my Schizophrenia for many years and helped me finally quit smoking after 20 years. He was giving of himself and tireless in his medical practice.
Shane Wilson
November 16, 2010
Dr Joel Hochman,
You will be missed by so many. It is amazing for me to see how many people from around this nation have shared how you helped them. Including myself! If it were not for you, my life would have taken a different path. As a Doctor to me you showed compassion! As a friend, you inspired me. You are truly missed!
Steve and Cheryl Nolin
November 3, 2010
Our condolences to Dr. Hochman's family. He was a good man.
May he rest in peace.
Mike Dubose
November 1, 2010
You are a true hero. You saved my life and so many others. You had the courage to stand up for the needs of your patients and unflinchingly confronted the DEA, kangaroo-court medical boards & opiophobia. I will miss you as a friend and as a physician. I love you, Joel. To paraphrase Yeats, you raged against the dying of the light, and you did not go gently into the night.
Lynn Brown
October 28, 2010
Dear Joel,
I will miss you for the rest of my life. You were indeed right as usual - "Life is NOT for amateurs." We had the most incredible decade plus together and I do not regret a moment. You truly cared about everyone and your passion for life will live on in those closest to you.
Lee Spatz
October 25, 2010
Thank you, He saved my life for 5 years & most importantly gave hope to me & many, many others. Joel thank you for everything rest in peace ... Shalom
Lee S. (Philadelphia, PA)
Tamara Ault
October 25, 2010
I knew him but a short time, but I loved him, his compassion and true caring about his patients is rare indeed. I'll miss him forever
Tami Ault
John Smoot
October 21, 2010
The world has lost a great man!!!
John Smoot
October 21, 2010
The world has lost a great man!!!
Scott Duggan
October 13, 2010
Dr. Hochman was a great man. He helped me out immensely with my pain management issues. The thing I admired most about him was the fact that he wasn't afraid or anything. Couple this with his compassion and great intellect and he is one of a kind. I respect him and will miss him greatly.
Michele Malone
October 12, 2010
The world has lost a great man - a caring, compassionate man who selflessly worked so hard to help so many - and who did so with so much kindness, empathy, and grace. I will never forget how his words of hope and optimism helped me through a very dark and difficult time in my life. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all the many people who loved him so...
Carson Patterson
October 4, 2010
I've been trying to come to terms with the tragic loss of Dr. Hochman since I first learned of it. It’s still too difficult to imagine the field of pain management without a man like him. He was a true pioneer in a very controversial field and a beacon of hope to his many patients.
But as much as he will be missed by his the many people he helped, the loss to his loving family and huge circle of friends must be immeasurable.
My thoughts and prayers go out to all who greave his passing.
Carson Patterson
Robert Jones
October 4, 2010
Thank you for caring for my wife Bennie,
she got relief from her pain and was treated with dignity, something Dr. Hochman surely had. He spent time with me explaining the treatment plan something other Doctors did not do.
I could tell he cared and I send my condolences to his family.
Bennie Jones
October 3, 2010
No words can express the thanks for the tireless work Dr. Hochman did for those in pain and the compassion he showed. Lynn, I know you will miss him and my thoughts and prayers are with you and Dr. Hochman's family. He was a great man and I loved to hear his stories of travel. He was a great man and will be missed.
Bennie Jones Austin Tx
Peter and Martin
September 30, 2010
Our sincerest condolences to Joel's family and friends. You were an inspiration Joel and will be fondly remembered.
Ronald Boese
September 29, 2010
Dear Dr. Hochman,
Thank you for all you have done for our family. We would certainly not have our son Brayden without your incredible help and compasion. You are a great man and you will be missed. Thank you also Lynn for all of your help. Our thoughts are with you.
Ron, Arlene and Brayden Boese
David Spann
September 28, 2010
I will miss you Dr Hochman.
D. Spann
Janet McDonald
September 27, 2010
Dearest beloved Dr. Hochman, It has taken me this long to add my words as I still cannot believe you are gone. You treated my pain for 6 years with care and remarkable compassion. I will never forget your small speeches of encouragement when I was down or at my lowest. My favorite "don't fix what isn't broke". The world will be a little bit sadder without you Dr. Hochman. I love you and will miss you greatly. Lynn, I can only imagine your sadness and I pray as time passes it will be easier to replace the saddness with memories. Please know that you have a friend here and if ever you should need me there is nothing you can't ask. God bless you and yours.
vanessa avie
September 26, 2010
So Sorry to hear about Dr. Hochman. May he rest in peace with the angels...Lynn, I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers...
Rodney Snell Jr.
September 26, 2010
Thank you Dr Hochman, Me , my children Rayna and Rodney III we will miss you dearly . Thanks for looking out for me and mine for the last 10 years you will be missed.
Rodney R Snell Jr. Montgomery , Texas
Rennold Madrazo
September 24, 2010
Dr. Hochman,you will truely be missed, My heart goes out to those I know were closest to you, Lynn your life long partner, Mandy who worked with such compassion and kindness and the family I did not know. You treated my pain for almost 8 years but most of all you were my freind and always listened and made me feel like more than a patient. My heart aches even though you are now with the angels. You were a great and understaning Doctor I dont believe there is another one like you. Lynn you are an incredably strong wonderful person and I know you will come through this and Nancy and I will pray for you. I will miss him as will so many but as he smiles down on us Iknow he will always be near. God Bless you all.
Mark Cabral
September 23, 2010
You will be missed dearly and loved by all you have helped bring quality of life back too!! I hope there are more doctors out there that care half as much as you did for your patients & whom loved there family unconditionally!!
I hope someone will step in to help continue the work you have done with the NFTP as you are a god to me!! I know there's a heaven & your there right now asking what you can do to help!!! You are a great friend and great doctor.Your family,friends and CPP's will miss you & remember you forever!!!
Thank you for being there and actually caring for me!! I will miss you!!
To your family, I am so sorry for your loss & my heart goes out to you all..
Scotty Cormier
September 23, 2010
Dr. Hochman helped me in so many ways since becoming ill wth a debilitating muscle diesease. He stood up for my right not to suffer, helped me to live comfortably while still here. I couldnt ever thank him enough for all he ever did to help me and my family. Thanks again Doc, I'll remember you here till we meet again...keep smiling ol friend!
Brandy Cormier
September 22, 2010
Dr. Hochman helped & touched so many peoples lives and the great traveler is now off to touch the Heavens. We'll see ya again Doc! Thanks for the compassion, frienship, treatment, intellect, and words on Life's trials & tribulations! We will all miss u and we send our symapathy to the family-Lynn,Day,Todd,Herb,Bonnie. God Bless each of you always! With deepest sympathy and love, Scotty & Brandy Cormier-Gone but Never Forgotten!!!!
Brandy Cormier
September 22, 2010
Great man, doctor and friend. Has saved my husband from suffering when found out of a rare disease when nobddy else would help. Use to say"Life has no place for Amateurs" and to keep fighting the good fight-so true. He was inspirational and helped so many. He will be missed by us both greatly. Sorry for your terrible loss Lynn,Day,Todd,Allison,Bonnie,and our friends and the office.
Debby Demory
September 22, 2010
Dr. Hochman was a truly compassionate doctor, a gentle soul, who responded to me when other doctors gave up on me. Lynn, Mandy, and Dr.l Hochman's family, I am so sorry for your loss.
Tanya
September 22, 2010
Dr. H will be missed more than I can express. He was a bright spot in so many lives. I know he changed mine and always helped me look on the positive side. As he told me once "life isn't about how to survive the storm, but how to dance in the rain". I have always kept that quote close to my heart. May his great spirit live on in all who were priveledged enough to know him.
Mark J. Gordon
September 22, 2010
Joel Hochman was my friend and mentor for 40 years. He came into my life when I was 18 and helped me to make healthy choices in my life. He empowered me to pursue my artistic talents and supported me when I experienced challenges. We had a deep intimacy and friendship. He was a father figure to me, and his counsel influenced many of the important decisions that shaped my life. I worked closely with him for 5 years as the Director of Communications for the National Foundation for the Treatment of Pain. I emailed him the day that he died. He shall be missed. My love and condolences to Todd, Dayan and Lynn. You were blessed to have him in your lives.
Much love,
Mark Gordon
Tina Sievers
September 21, 2010
Lynn, Mandy and family, I am so sorry for your loss. He was a man of great compassion and fearlessness who stood up for those of us in pain that no one else would help. I will be forever grateful for his persistence and tenacity on behalf of his patients. You will be greatly missed. Tina Sievers
Michael G Langley, MD
September 20, 2010
A true light in a fading world! I never met him, but he inspired me, daily, to keep "pushing against the pricks". He will be missed.
michael grant
September 20, 2010
dr. hochman helped me a great deal and i always knew he was a straight shooter. May God bless his family as they make the remaining journey.
Regards
Carol & Buzz Buvinghausen
September 20, 2010
We have known Joel for sometime, he was tireless in helping other people. I use to ask him when did he sleep, he always replied, I get four to six hours a night, he never stopped. He will be missed terribly. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you, Lynn, Dayan, Todd and Herb.
September 20, 2010
Dear Lynn,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in the loss of Dr. Hochman. He was a dear friend to me, my little girls and my husband, Thomas Arena. Thomas and Dr. Hochman had a wonderful relationship for about 15 years and Thomas enjoyed working with him for his IT needs. He will be missed by so many people. May both rest in peace. I share your loss and pain.
With Love,
Lidia, Kaitlyn and Hailey
September 20, 2010
Dr. Hochman saved my life. He not only allowed me to return to life he also guided me with an unmatched wisdom and compassion. The world has lost one of the best. My heart and prayers go out to all those who loved him. He will be greatly missed. Kim Whittenburg
Kurt georgeades
September 20, 2010
After 23 years of friendship it is hard to say goodbye, He was like a father to me. I will always remember his words " when things get tough and you are taking punches, get out of the way", Dayan,Todd,Lynn you are in my prayers, may the lord heal your heart and allow you to remember the good times. I just heard Sunday morning of his passing and could not get to Houston soon enough, I am sorry that I could not be there today for the service. I will never forget you Doc...
Cheryl Davis
September 20, 2010
My thought and prayers go out to his family and friends, so sorry to hear of your loss. He will live on in minds of many due to all the hard work he did to help those in pain.
al hamman
September 19, 2010
Its been an honor to be your brother, a pleasure to be your friend, and a Godsend to be your patient. The fight will be won and until then we will dance when the music is playing and fly when the sun is shining...
Much love to those whose loss was more dear - Lynn, Bonnie and whole family. Im so sorry for your loss - his was and is a light spirit
September 19, 2010
Mark Barletta
September 19, 2010
Gemie Spaulding
September 19, 2010
Dr. Hochman made the world a better place. An expert not only in the field of medicine he practiced but in life. He not only treated his patients but when needed he stood next to them and stood up for them when one could not stand alone any longer. He gave me great support through my own battle. A man I fully trusted, a man that will live on forever in my heart, my soul and in my mind. He spoke his mind not afraid of what others thought or said, a true leader, a hero, a friend and father. My heart goes out to his family and friends, my thoughts and prayers will be with all of you through this time of change that we will never get over but with time we will get use too.
Erica Weinstock
September 19, 2010
Dr.Hochman was not only a wonderful doctor but a wonderful person. He has touched so many people and I have no doubt his life and legacy will continue on in the lives of all the people he's helped. My prayers and condolences go out to his family.
Dr Hochman at his desk.
allan portman
September 19, 2010
He was my friend and I will always keep him in my thoughts. He was fearless when it came to helping others. My condolences to his family.
allan portman
Sitting at his desk
allan portman
September 19, 2010
He was a great man who loved life. He was my friend and I will always carry him in my thoughts. He was fearless about helping others. I also send my condolences to his family.
Jim Walter
September 19, 2010
You will be missed I cannot bring myself to say good by I will say thanks for giving of your life so other people could have thiers and I will see you again you will live on for ever thanks for being there I will never forget you To his family he loved you so much on each visit with him for over 11 years he would ask me about my family and then we would talk about his he was very proud of each and every one of you He was a one of a kind and live in my heart forever
carolynn sparks
September 19, 2010
The world is a better place because of all that Joel gave during his amazing 69 years. My condolences go out to all his family and dear friends. BHS Class of 58 will long remember Joel.
Brendan Lally
September 19, 2010
Brendan Lally
September 19, 2010
Good by old friend.
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