Richard Ronald Kochemba

Richard Ronald Kochemba, Jr., 55, of Gustavus, was surrounded by his family as he passed on Friday, March 23, 2012 at home, after a courageous six year battle with metastatic carcinoid cancer. The memory of his strength, optimism, and love will remain strong through eternity. He was born on October 14, 1956 to Ruth Kochemba and Richard Kochemba, Sr., both of whom preceded him in passing. A lifelong resident of Gustavus, Richard was the seventh generation of the Pelton family, the first settlers of Gustavus Township. Richard owned and operated a family dairy farm, Hilltop Farms, and for the past eleven years was employed by Cope Farm Equipment in Kinsman. Richard is survived by his wife of eight years and best friend, Mary Wright Kochemba; son Steven R. (Amber) Kochemba of Gustavus; a daughter Misty D. Kochemba of San Francisco; a step daughter and step son Alyssa B. and Brandon A. Brown both of whom live at home. He is also survived by sister Lori (Cliff) Hineman of Gustavus; brother William (Marsha) Kochemba of Gustavus, sister in law Susan (Dean) Ligo of New Wilmington, PA; sister in law Nancy (Ty) Phillips of Easton, Maryland; and parents in law William McK and Nancy C. Wright of New Wilmington, PA. Richard was an avid sports fan and cheered for the Browns, Indians, and Cavaliers as well as The Ohio State Buckeyes and Mahoning Valley Scrappers. He housed Scrappers players in his home for three seasons and held season tickets for many years. He liked dancing with his wife, playing cards with his family, taking trips for ice cream with his kids, playing pool with his friends, and playing corn hole with his cousins from Cambridge. He especially enjoyed the treats that his daughter would bake for him. Richard took great pleasure in being surrounded by his friends and family and in working on his farm with his son. Richard's special gift was his quick wit and ability to earn the love and adoration of those whose lives he touched. He was well known for his work ethic, honesty, and loyalty to friends and to his family. He was fiercely proud of his family and of his home. Richard's life was defined by his love for his wife and his children and his inner strength. Even in his darkest hours, he was able to provide courage and peace for those who loved him most. Though in passing he leaves a tremendous void in the lives of all who loved him, he leaves with them a warmth and a courage that cannot be taken away. Richard and his family owe a great deal of gratitude to The Hope Center and to Hospice of the Valley's kind and supportive staff and to his many loving, faithful friends who comforted him and who shared his life with him. A simple memorial service will be held Tuesday, March 27th at 7:00 pm at Grace Fellowship Church, 2150 Niles Cortland Road, Warren, Ohio 44484, with Pastor John Temple officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to the Gustavus Volunteer Fire Department, 8750 State Route 193, Farmdale, Ohio 44417 or Grace Fellowship Church, 2150 Niles Cortland Road, Warren, Ohio 44484. A guestbook is available with online condolences at www.baumgardnerfuneralhome.com

Service Information

Service

Tuesday, March 27 2012
7:00 PM

Grace Fellowship Church

Warren OH