David Andrew Kocher

Family-Placed Obituary

DAVID ANDREW KOCHER David Andrew Kocher died on May 22, 2011 in Pinehurst, NC. He was diagnosed with cancer in February of 2010 and fought the disease bravely but it eventually took his life. David was born in Williamsport, PA on November 11, 1941 to Karl and Marguerite Kocher. He loved his parents dearly, missed them until the day he died and will always be remembered for his commitment to keeping the Kocher family united. David graduated from Pennsylvania State University in 1963 and was an avid Nittany Lion fan. Fall Saturdays meant Penn State football and a game was rarely missed. Upon graduating from Penn State David began his career at Aetna Life and Casualty. David's career was long and distinguished with his final position at Aetna being President of the Property Casualty Group. David retired from Aetna in July of 1995 after thirty one years with the company. Following Aetna, David spent three years with the National Council on Compensation Insurance with his final role being President and Chief Executive Officer. David retired to Pinehurst, NC in 1998. He loved Pinehurst and was first motivated to move there by his father. He loved the town, its history, the people and the beautiful surroundings. The Kocher homestead in Pinehurst, including the pool that David loved for the fellowship it engendered, was a place of friendship, love and laughs. David loved hosting family and friends at gatherings poolside in Pinehurst. A crucial part of any get together at the Kocher homestead was David's piano playing and the group sing-a-longs. David loved music, especially hymns, and used it frequently to bring a smile to people's faces and put warmth in their hearts. David focused much of his time and energy on continuously improving the communities in which he lived, their capabilities and those of the surrounding areas. He was very involved with the United Way and the Easter Seals Greater Hartford Rehabilitation Center. He was a devoted member of the Village Chapel and worked tirelessly to strengthen the presence of Christianity in the lives of those he knew and loved. He was a dedicated board member of the FirstHealth Hospice Foundation and was actively involved in Martha's Place, a soup kitchen sponsored by Page Memorial United Methodist Church. David leaves behind a very loving family led by his wife, Grace. His children Karen, John and Karl do and will miss him terribly. Lyn, his daughter that predeceased him, met him upon his arrival in heaven and is thankful to have him in her presence. His five grandchildren, David, Daniel, Julia, Addison and Sophia as well as his four brothers and sisters, Steve, Carol, Phil and Connie all survive him. A Memorial Service will be held 11:00 AM Friday, May 27, 2011 at the Village Chapel in Pinehurst, NC with Dr. Larry Ellis officiating. A reception will follow in the church hall. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the FirstHealth Hospice Foundation at 150 Applecross Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374. Online condolences may be made at www.bolesfuneralhome.com To express condolences and/or make donations Visit PalmBeachPost.com/obituaries