Michael “Mickey” Kocheck

After nine decades of unwavering love, steadfast faith, and a life built around the people he cherished most, Michael “Mickey” Kocheck passed peacefully on June 8, 2026. He was 90 years old.

Mickey was born on August 20, 1935, in Girard, Ohio.  From his earliest days, he formed an inseparable bond with his mother Martha (née Vucinich) Kocheck and older sister, Eleanor — a bond that would be a hallmark of the devoted, loyal man he would become. He went on to attend the University of Cincinnati, where his path in both career and life would take meaningful shape.

At the heart of Mike’s life was his extraordinary partnership with his beloved wife, Juanita “Punkie” (née Bittner) Kocheck, to whom he was married for 65 years. Their love story began in the most fitting of ways — Mike was working on the construction of the I-275 bridges in Cincinnati when the two first met, a beginning as sturdy and enduring as the structures he would spend a lifetime building. Together, they built a life full of adventure, laughter, and unshakable support for one another. Whether at home in their beloved Cincinnati or wintering in the warmth of Mount Dora, Florida, Mike and Juanita were always surrounded by the family and friends who meant the world to them. Their partnership was a testament to mutual devotion, resilience, and joy.

Nothing in Mike’s life brought him greater happiness or deeper pride than his family. He was a devoted and endlessly loving father to his daughters, Kristen Rojas and Kelli Hasselbeck, whose lives he poured himself into with every bit of his heart. He never wanted to miss a moment — showing up for birthdays, celebrations, games, holidays, and the quiet everyday moments in between with the same consistency and presence that defined everything he did. His love only grew with the arrival of his grandchildren — Michael and Maria Rojas, and Emma and Alex Hasselbeck — each of whom knew without question that they were treasured beyond measure. He especially delighted in listening to their stories, celebrating their accomplishments, and sharing in their adventures. Those moments brought him some of his greatest joy. To know him was to understand what it means to be truly, unconditionally loved.

Professionally, Mike left an enduring mark on the city he called home. As a Civil Engineer with more than 40 years in construction, he helped shape the skyline of Cincinnati and contributed to many of the region’s most iconic buildings and infrastructure. Of all the projects he was part of, he held a special pride in helping construct the engineering building at the University of Cincinnati — a project that carried deep personal meaning, connecting his life’s work to the institution where his own journey had begun. His legacy in concrete and steel will stand for generations to come, a visible and lasting testament to the craftsmanship and dedication he brought to everything he touched.

Faith was a cornerstone of Mike’s life. His deep and abiding belief brought him comfort in times of hardship and gratitude in times of joy. It guided the way he loved, the way he served, and the grace with which he faced every season of his long and beautiful life.

Mike led not through recognition or fanfare, but through consistency, humility, and love. His example showed those around him the quiet power of hard work, devotion to family, and the irreplaceable value of simply being present for the people who matter most.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Juanita; his daughters, Kristen Rojas and Kelli (Rick) Hasselbeck; his grandchildren, Michael and Maria Rojas, and Emma and Alex Hasselbeck; and all who were fortunate enough to call him family or friend.

Michael Kocheck built things that last — buildings that line the Cincinnati skyline, a bridge that still carries the weight of a city, and a family filled with love that will carry his spirit forward always. He was, in every sense, a man of substance, of faith, and of profound devotion. He will be deeply and forever missed.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 from 9:00-10:00am at St. Gabriel Church, 48 W Sharon Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45246. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00am.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the newly created Michael Kocheck Memorial Scholarship https://givebutter.com/in-memory-of-michael-kocheck-aemshj.