Vernon J Hockett

Vernon J Hockett, 81, of Olathe, Kansas, went to be with his Lord on December 18, 2020.

Vern was the eldest son of Paul and Romaine (Sisson) Hockett. He and his brother Ron were raised on the family farm near Union, Iowa. Vern received a Bachelor's degree in music education from Iowa State Teachers College, Cedar Falls and a Master's degree in music education from Northeast Missouri State College, Kirksville. He was a strong supporter of the fine arts. From 1961-1969 he was the band director in Denver, Iowa. He then moved to Bettendorf, Iowa, where he taught music theory classes, started beginner band students, and directed choirs and musical orchestras. Over a 38-year teaching career, he profoundly impacted the lives of thousands of young people through sharing his love and appreciation of music.

Vern met the love of his life Linda (Kauzlarich) Hockett while attending college in Cedar Falls. They were married in 1962. Throughout their 58 years of marriage, they enjoyed spending time with family and friends. After retirement the couple made several trips, including a favorite to Croatia (the homeland of Linda's grandparents.) Vern built furniture and toys in his woodworking shop. Over the years he played clarinet, sang in the choir and was a member of the hand bells group at Grace United Methodist Church. He enjoyed volunteering for the Olathe community school district and socializing with his (Parkinson's) boxing buddies at the gym.

Vernon was preceded in death by his parents as well as his younger brother, Ron.

He is survived by his wife, three children and their spouses: Lori Clark, Joe and Sue Hockett and Greg and Stacey Hockett. There are 6 grandchildren: Caleb, Nicholas, Clayton, Garret, Ashton and Sarah.

We would like to express our immense gratitude to all of those who touched and cared for Vernon, especially those who were with him through his final days at Hillside Village.

Plans are being made for a memorial service in the spring at Grace United Methodist Church, Olathe, KS. If desired, donations may be made to:

The Parkinson Research Foundation, 5969 Cattleridge Blvd., Suite 100, Sarasota, FL 34232; www.ParkinsonHope.org

Hillside Village of DeSoto, 33600 West 85th Street, DeSoto, KS 66018.

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