Victor J. Kochmer

Victor J. Kochmer, of Clarks Summit, passed away peacefully on August 1st at Allied Skilled Nursing following a long battle with dementia. He was born on November 10, 1944, to the late Victor Kochmer Sr. and Frances Cardone Kochmer.

Vic was predeceased by his beloved wife of nearly 53 years, Sheila Heffron Kochmer, and by his son John.

He is survived by his sister, Elizabeth "Betty" Craik, of Fort Worth, TX; his daughter, Jennifer London, of Schenectady, NY; and his son, Gabriel, and daughter-in-law, Marcia Bockol, of East Quogue, NY. Vic was devoted to his family, and some of his happiest moments were spent with his six grandchildren: Mason, Ava, Farah, Tyler, Brynn, and Miles. He is also fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and their families.

Raised on his family farm, Vic graduated from Tunkhannock High School, then earned his culinary degree from the Culinary Institute of America in New Haven, CT. He proudly served in the U.S. Army before returning to the culinary world, working in renowned kitchens across the country—from Pebble Beach to Chicago to the Adirondack Mountains.

In addition to his skills as a chef, Vic was a licensed pilot and flight instructor for both airplanes and helicopters. After leaving the aviation industry in the late 1970s, he and Sheila ran several successful businesses together and later enjoyed fruitful careers in executive recruiting before retiring.

Vic's vibrant career and open-hearted nature allowed him to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether sharing stories with a Fortune 500 executive or chatting with the mechanic who kept his tractors running, Vic's genuine, quiet presence put everyone at ease. He was always ready with a story, a generous smile, and a helping hand—and you could always count on sharing a delicious meal in his company. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Friends may pay their respects on Tuesday from 5 to 7 pm at the Lawrence E. Young Funeral Home, 418 South State Street, Clarks Summit. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at 9 am at St. Patrick's Church, 1401 Jackson Street, Scranton, with interment to follow at Cathedral Cemetery, Scranton.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Victor's name to Allied Hospice or a charity meaningful to you.