David Michael Bockmore

David M. Bockmore, 67, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was a loving husband, hard-working and selfless father, and a proud Papa. He didn’t always express love with words—he expressed it through action. He showed love by providing, by fixing what needed fixing, and by taking care of the people he loved. Sometimes that love looked like changing the oil in your car, offering a new home construction idea to one of his children, or quietly handling things so others didn’t have to worry. That was his way.

David’s life was deeply rooted in farming. He grew up on a farm, learning early the value of hard work, responsibility, and dependability. Those lessons stayed with him throughout his life. Alongside his wife and children, he built a farm of his own, where family life was shaped by harvest seasons, baling hay, long days, and shared work. Farming was never just a job—it was a way of life, and it became part of the foundation he gave his family. He ended his career at Jaloda Farms, closing a chapter that reflected the same values he carried from the very beginning.

His love was steady and constant—the kind that didn’t seek recognition but never wavered. He showed up, worked hard, and stayed present. The values he instilled—work ethic, commitment, and dependability—were lived out every day in how he cared for his family.

He had a deep love for supporting his grandchildren and the youth in his life. Wrestling meets, soccer games, softball fields, dance recitals, 4-H events, and school programs—he was there for it all. The list was endless, and so was his pride. Being present mattered to him, and he made sure the kids he loved always felt seen and supported.

In his final hours, he was not in pain. He was surrounded by family and went peacefully, just as he lived—with dignity and strength.

He leaves behind Kathi, his beloved wife of nearly 42 years; his children Joe (Julie), Jordan (Danielle), Juliann, and Justin (Ashley); and his grandchildren, whom he lovingly referred to as his bitties—the "Bockmore Bitties"—who brought him endless joy: Daisy, Morgan, Jadon, Whitney, Tyson, Evelynn, Addison, Kynlee, Haisley, Reagan, Nathan, Cole, and Korie.

He is also survived by his sister Mary Jo Kerchmar; brother Dominic (Sandi) Bockmore; sisters-in-law Tari Diedrick and Joni (Scott) Hendricks; brother-in-law Mark Kerchmar; son-in-law Ben Mariner; and many nieces, nephews, great-nephews, great-nieces, and friends who were grateful to know him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Antoinette Bockmore, and his parents-in-law, Paul and Phyllis Brandt, along with many aunts, uncles, and relatives who lovingly welcomed him at Heaven’s door.

He was deeply proud of the life he built and the family he loved. Though his absence leaves an ache that will always be felt, his presence will be carried forward in every practical lesson, every act of care, and every moment we step in to take care of one another—just as he did.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 15 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Camden Baptist Church (17901 OH-511, Wellington, OH 44090).

The funeral service will be held on Friday, January 16 at 11:00 a.m. at Camden Baptist Church (17901 OH-511, Wellington, OH 44090).

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the David Bockmore Memorial Livestock Fund, to continue supporting Lorain County 4-H youth, just as he loved to do. Please make checks payable to David Bockmore Memorial Livestock Fund - c/o Tari Diedrick, 2621 Butler Rd, Wakeman, OH 44889. Electronic contributions may be made via Venmo, @DBockmoreMemorialLivestockFund.

Though our hearts are broken, we are at peace knowing he is resting. His love remains—quiet, steady, and enduring.