Wayne Hochard 1932-2025
Wayne Francis Hochard, 93, of Wetmore, passed away Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, at his home.
He was born Jan. 29, 1932, in Corning, the son of Clarence J. and Anna L. (Miller) Hochard.
Wayne graduated from Corning High School. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1950 to 1971, earning rank as E-7 and CPO.
He was a lifelong farmer and stockman and worked for Rockwell International in Atchison as a mechanic until retirement.
He was a member of Corning American Legion Post 37 and NRA.
Wayne married Emiko “Emily” Taniguchi on Oct. 7, 1954, in Japan. They celebrated 47 years of marriage before her passing in 2001.
Survivors include two sons, John Hochard (Sharon) of Holton and Michael Hochard (Amy) of Topeka; three sisters, Theresa Rethman of Corning, Rita Smutny of Hoyt and Patricia Smith of Topeka; a brother, Maurice Hochard of Topeka; three grandchildren, Bryon Hochard (Roe), Chase Hochard (Britney) and Cooper Hochard; and five great-grandchildren, Piper, Bruce, Blair, Maya and Lyla.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Anna Hochard; infant daughter, Patricia Hochard; two sisters, Rosemary Haug and Irene Donahy; two brothers, Clarence Jr. and Glen Hochard; and a granddaughter, Kristen Mellenbruch.
Graveside services with military honors will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 17 at Wetmore Cemetery. Wayne will lie in state from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton.
Memorials may be given to Corning American Legion Post 37, sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com
(PAID OBITUARY)
