Roger Kocian

Roger Kocian, 72, a lifelong resident of Waco, passed away Sunday in a local hospital after a month-long illness.   Roger was the oldest of six children born to Bernard and Ruby Kocian.  He married Velma Martinez on August 31, 1979 and together they raised their family.  He served in the US Army Reserves and retired in 2005 from the City of Waco after over 30 years’ service in the Parks and Recreation Department and the Streets Department where he was a supervisor.

He was an avid stamp collector and had a green thumb growing many of the herbs with which he seasoned the food he cooked with love for his family.  His flower garden with its hibiscus and marigolds were known for their beauty.  He also loved to fish and hunt often taking the entire family.  He especially loved Christmas, filling the house with trees, ornaments, and presents.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Alinda Fickel.

Roger is survived by his wife of 42 years, Velma Kocian; children: Azita Gonzalez and husband, Thomas of Denton, TX; Kimberley Cox of Denton, TX; Aaron Kocian and wife, Cassandra of Lacy Lakeview, TX; Viola Anthony of Waco, TX; Grandchildren:  Dante Gonzalez, Joseph Gonzalez, Jeremiah Gonzalez, Tierney Cox, Lillian Cox, Desiree Kocian, Brently Kocian, Emersyn Kocian, and Faith Kocian.   He is also survived by his 3 sisters; Lydia Itani of Rowlett, TX, Dolores Jones of California, Elaine Shipley of Jonesboro, TX and brother, Michael Kocian of Houston, TX and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Thursday, October 14, 2021 at Waco Memorial Mausoleum Chapel, 6623 S IH-35, Waco, TX with a Rosary said for Roger starting at 5:30 PM with Jack Kopatz and Norma Moon reciting.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Roger at 1 PM, Friday, October 15, 2021 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waco with Father Benji officiating.  Interment will follow at Waco Memorial Park.   Pallbearers will be Aaron Kocian, Thomas Gonzalez, Travis Itani, David Fickel, Ronald Schroeder and Michael Aldridge.  Honorary Pallbearers will be Rami Itani, Brett Jones, Raymond Martinez, III, Calvin Schroeder, Mike Kocian, Joseph Gonzalez, Brian Baker and Steven Hall.