James Edward “Ed” Kocher

James Edward “Ed” Kocher, 70, passed away Thursday, April 4, 2024, at his home in Federal Way, Wash., where he was no doubt met by his mother and father, beloved son-in-law, Kevin, and countless other beloved aunts, uncles and family.

Ed was born in Cadott, to Lloyd and Iva Kocher, and was the third of four children.

The family lived on a small farm outside Cadott, before moving to downtown Cadott.

Ed spent countless hours, fishing the Yellow River and being mischievous in town, with his Cadott High School classmates, graduating from Caddot High School in 1971. After high school, Ed joined the United States Air Force in 1972.

He was introduced by his best friend, Joe, to the love of his life, Joan Lee Roycraft, in 1973. The two were married in Anson, and quickly moved to California, before getting stationed in Spain, Ohio, Alaska and Lacey, Wash., where the two stayed to raise their young family.

After completing his military service, Ed went back to school, to obtain his credentials in computer repair and began his 20 plus-year career as a computer technician. Following his career as a computer tech, Ed ended his professional career as a courier, driving all across western Washington, with his faithful dog companions, Jack and Annie, in tow.

Upon retirement in 2018, Ed enjoyed spending time at his home, fixing anything that was broken, with a little bit of love, ingenuity, duct tape and JB Weld.

Ed was truly a renaissance man, who enjoyed the challenge of fixing things that were broken. Ever the storyteller, Ed could be heard in any room, telling a number of different tales or spouting a random fact on many interesting topics.

Known by many names, Fast Eddy, Eddie, Edwardo, Edwardito, San Blas, Papas Ano, his family knows him best as husband, loving dad and papa. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 50 years – Joan; two adoring daughters – Sondra and Amanda; six grandchildren – Lillee, Levi, Abigail, Elijah, Joseph and Hannah; his three siblings – Cathy Koch (Lenny), Lloyd Kocher (Maria) and Marilyn Beaudette; and many nieces and nephews.

A private family gathering will be held later in the year.