Gerald R Kochendorfer
Gerald R. Kochendorfer age 87 of Menomonie, died Friday May 17, 2013 at his home with his family by his side.
Gerald was born May 28, 1925 in Menomonie, the son of Leonard and Virginia (Succow) Kochendorfer. Gerald grew up in Menomonie and graduated from Menomonie High School in 1943. Before reporting to the U. S. Navy during WW II, Gerald married his high school sweetheart, Patricia "Pat" McGowan September 10, 1943 in Menomonie. After leaving the service they resided in San Bernardino, CA where Gerald started his law enforcement career with the San Bernardino Police Dept., and raised their three children. After 18 years with the San Bernardino Police Dept. Gerald went to work for the U. S. Department of Justice as an Investigator. During his 20 year career, Gerald worked in the Witness Protection Progam, the Drug Enforcement Agency and Correctional Facilities, throughout the United States. After several years of retirement they decided to return to Menomonie where he has remained the rest of his life.
During retirement years, Gerald enjoyed playing golf. He was a die hard Chicago Cubs and Green Bay Packer Fan. Gerald was a member of the Menomonie Lions Club, a lifetime member of the Elks Club and was also a member of the First Congregational Church.
Gerald is survived by his wife of almost 70 years, Pat; three children, Sandee Elkins of Colfax; Gerry (Marilyn) Kochendorfer of Lake Forest, CA; Sally (Reagan) Ondler of Pinole, CA; four grandchildren, Scott (Dyani) Elkins; Aaron Elkins; Chip Kochendorfer; Tiffany (Russell) Cedarberg; three great grandchildren, Madison & Chasen Elkins and Liam Cedarberg; a sister June Gordon of Menomonie; several nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.
Gerald is preceded in death by his parents, a grandson Richard Elkins, and a brother, James Kochendorfer.