Doris and Richard Gocker

Doris Margaret Gocker, of Omro, peacefully passed away on Friday, January 26, 2024 in the care of Cardinal View Senior Care (with Agrace hospice support) in Middleton, WI. She was 86 years old.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Richard George Gocker, of Omro. Richard peacefully passed away on Thursday, October 22, 2020, succumbing to his battle with Parkinson’s Disease in hospice care at the Weyauwega Care Center.

Doris was born on February 17, 1937, in Oshkosh, WI to the late Anthony and Caroline Schmidt. After graduating from Oshkosh High School in 1955, Doris worked as a teller at Oshkosh Savings & Loan for nearly 10 years before she met her husband Richard Gocker at a bowling party. They wed on May 1, 1965, at St. Vincent’s Church in Oshkosh, WI.

After being a stay-a-home mother for over 18 years, Doris returned to the workforce with several different occupations before working at Target for several years before her retirement. She enjoyed many hobbies throughout her lifetime—bowling, crocheting, macrame’, sewing, and gardening, as well as reading and building puzzles.

Richard was born on June 16, 1938 in Chicago, IL to the late George and Lorraine Gocker. After graduating from Omro High School, Richard served with both the Marine Reserves and Air Force. Afterwards, he worked as a journeyman electrician for many years, eventually settling at UW-Oshkosh as a buildings and grounds supervisor until his retirement. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, card playing, reading political and spy thrillers, and smoking a cigar while watching nature.

Doris and Richard are survived by sister Janice (Francis) Crowley; daughters Suzanne Johnson, Barbara (Tim) Rosenthal, Sally (Tim) Lee, and Carrie Gocker; grandchildren Emily & Samuel Rosenthal, Greta Johnson, and Joshua & Shelby Lee; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Per both Doris and Richard’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no public service or memorial held at this time.

 We welcome you to share your memories of Doris and Richard here on their tribute page. 

Cress Center

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