"I worked with Newell for several years, and he was such a great loving, honest, and caring person. My love to his wife, boys, and other family members."
In loving memory of
Newell Kocher
Newell Charles Kocher, 46, of New River, Arizona died Sunday, May 28, after a brief illness. Newell was born in Falls Church, Virginia on April 6, 1971. He graduated from the State University of New York College of Technology at Alfred in 1992, and Colorado State University in Fort Collins in 1995, where he met his wife Jen. Newell and Jen were married in 1998 in Omaha, Nebraska.
Newell is survived by his wife Jennifer Lynn Kocher and their two sons, Vaux (15) and Zary (13). Newell was preceded in death by his father, James G Kocher in 2015.
Newell was Vice President, Client Executive for Optum and traveled regularly to his region, the Pacific Northwest.
Newell was an adventurer who seized life and loved fiercely. He enjoyed spending time with his family, relaxing at his cabin, watching his sons play basketball, football and run track, hiking with his dogs in the woods, attending music festivals, and riding ATVs in his backyard, Tonto National Forest, where he would take the time to find the perfect place to watch the sunset. He appreciated a good bourbon and long conversations. His friendships lasted a lifetime, which was evidenced by the outpouring of love from hundreds of friends and family members who became "Newell's Army," helping him fight through togetherness, prayer and support for his family. Newell has passed on, but will never be forgotten. Newell made a positive impact on dozens of lives. He showed others how to live. He was the #1 father, husband, friend and brother.
Memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 10 at 2 PM at Good Shepherd Catholic Mission in New River. Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 10 from 6-10 PM at Cave Creek Regional Park Nature Center.
Online condolences may be made at hansenmortuary.com.
Tributes
"Dear Kocher Family, Newell will be missed terribly by his "business friends". We would meet up at conferences and meetings, Newell brought joy, intellect and thoughtfulness to every encounter. He always lit up the room as spoke lovingly of his family. Our deepest sympathy to you, your family. Sincerely, Bob Oscar and the entire RxEOB family"
"Dear Jen, You are in our prayers and thoughts during these difficult times. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family."
"My prayers are with you and your family. Although I did not have the honor of knowing Newell, I did have the honor of teaching Vaux last year. Through the comments Vaux regularly made about fatherhood and marriage, it was clear to me that Newell was a kind, loving, and wise father and husband. May you all have the grace and strength necessary for the journey ahead."
"Our hearts are heavy, and it is hard to find the words to convey our sympathy. We can only imagine how incredibly difficult the past few weeks have been, Newell was one of a kind, he touched so many lives, and those of us who knew him will forever have "Newell" stories to tell. He will live on in our hearts and memories. How quickly "Newell's Army" grew in such a short time is a testament to him, and the awesome man we will always remember. You will always have our love and support."
"Julie, Brock and the girls thought so much of your family. Thank you for being such good friends to them. Our deepest sympathy to you the boys and your extended family. He will be greatly missed. Roger and Diane Biltoft ( Julie's parents)"
"To the Kocker and Hausmann families: Newell was certainly loved by all and will be greatly missed by family and friends. I only met him once but could see what a great man he was. Wish I had known him better."
"Dearest Jen, We are heartbroken for the loss of Newell. Please be conforted by the realization that you and your sons gave to Newell the most supportive, loving and genuinely perfect life we are afforded in our human form. We celebrate with you the realization that our beloved nephew Newell now rest in the hands of our benevolent God. Thank you for your courage, strength, and grace during this most difficult times. We send always our love and support to you. We remain always here for you and your sons. Love and Peace. Uncle Ben and Aunt Carole"
"Jen I just want you and the boys and of course all of your family to know you will always remain in my prayers and I am so very thankful for the years that you had with your sweet husband. Your memories are yours and no one can take them from you. You're Eternity with your husband with our Heavenly Father is also yours. I know your husband was an amazing man it reflects and resonates in you're boys and you . I feel very blessed and honored to have met your family at such a critical time in your life. I will always be here for you if there's anything I can do. I am so grateful for the friendship that began at such a trying time in our lives. ????"
"Jen,Vaux, & Zary, I had not read your journal in "Caring Bridge" until after I saw you at Mayor Clinic last Sunday. I was aghast at the turmoil & multiple attempts you struggled through to find the correct answer & treatment for Newell's high temperatures & resulting intermittent incapacities. You went through an incredible, tortuous journey, struggling to find the right answer, for the right treatment. My heart goes out to you. Thank you for loving Newell & being his soul mate all these years...and for giving him two handsome sons. He was a major success in his education, job career, and family life & great friends. Thanks also to Patrick Donahue & his parents for giving Newell critical guidance & love upon graduation from H.S."