Richard Kochvar

Richard H. Kochvar, 82, of Danville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 5th, 2024. He was born in Danville, Illinois, on September 28, 1942, to John G. and Elizabeth Kochvar, Richard led a life marked by family devotion, adventure, and love.

Richard graduated from Westville High School and went on to attend the University of Kentucky and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Eastern Illinois University. His professional life was dedicated to Human Resources, where he retired as the Human Resources Leader at Silgan Containers. During his career, he was actively involved in the United Way, Society for Human Resource Management and served as President and a member of the Board of Directors for Junior Achievement, reflecting his commitment to mentoring and inspiring young people.

On October 26, 1968, Richard married the love of his life, Sandra Mae Miller, and together they built a legacy of love and family. Married for 56 years, Richard and Sandy raised three children: Kimberly Kochvar of Columbus, Indiana and her sons Tyler Cole (wife Hope Cole) of Newport News, Virginia and Aidan Cole of Columbus, Indiana, Kelly Kochvar Schneeman, late husband Corey Schneeman and son Tristan Schneeman of Hebron, Kentucky, and Kevin Kochvar, late wife Megan Fera Kochvar and daughter Kinsey Kochvar of Hebron, Kentucky.

Richard loved his family deeply and was a dedicated husband and father. He delighted in taking his family on unforgettable summer vacations across the United States, exploring some of his favorite places like the Grand Tetons, Grand Canyon, Minnesota, Smoky Mountains, Blue Ridge Mountains and Memphis, Tennessee. His passion for the outdoors extended to fly fishing, river raft trips on the Snake River in Wyoming, Jogging, and Coaching his son’s little league baseball team for many years. He enjoyed all types of transportation especially his cherished model train collection. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and University of Kentucky basketball fan.

He cooked amazing Sunday dinners for his family while playing his favorite Elvis Presley music including “Kentucky Rain” and “Suspicious Minds”. He was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church where he served as an Usher for many years. 

A man of warmth, humor and wisdom, Richard will be remembered for his generous spirit, sense of adventure, and devotion to his beloved family. He was predeceased by his parents, John G. and Elizabeth Kochvar, his brother, John E. Kochvar, and his son-in-law, Corey Schneeman and daughter-in-law, Megan Kochvar.

Richard’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved him. His memory will be cherished by his devoted wife, Sandy, his children, grandchildren, extended family, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A private celebration of Richard’s life will be held with immediate family. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, Illinois, 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, IL 61834 is assisting the family with arrangements.

Richard’s life was a testament to love, dedication, and adventure. He will be profoundly missed but forever remembered.

Please join Richard’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com .