Bill was born on June 3, 1937, in Arkansas City, Kansas, to Louis and Velda (Klink) Gochis. He will be laid to rest at Hope Cemetery in his hometown of Arkansas City.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Helen (Gochis) Templeton, and his brother-in-law Tom Templeton. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 60 years, Bobbetta “Bobbie” (Bartelt) Gochis; his sons Michael (Jane) Gochis of Overland Park, Richard (Cheryl) Gochis of Waco, TX, and David Gochis of Boulder, CO; his grandchildren Christopher (Joy), Spencer, Jennifer, Andrew, Jacob, Hannah, and Annabelle; and his great-grandson, Forrest.
Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. A proud Jayhawk, he attended the University of Kansas, where he lettered in tennis, studied mechanical engineering, was an Army ROTC Cadet, and was a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity. After serving as an Army officer, he spent his professional career with the Bubeck/Trane Company.
Bill’s life was defined by his love for family, faith, and service. He was a member of Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church for over 40 years. Some of his favorite activities were coaching youth sports, cheering on his children and grandchildren, and being an active member of the Rotary Club of Overland Park, where he was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow. He enjoyed tennis, golf, home improvement projects, and a rotating collection of “third cars,” including Jeeps and Corvettes. He loved spending time outdoors hiking in the mountains and deserts. In later years, he especially loved engaging in spirited political debates with his grandchildren. He enjoyed babysitting his grand-puppy, Penny.
Above all, Bill was devoted to his wife Bobbie, to whom he dedicated his life with unwavering love and care.
A celebration of life will be held Friday, June 6th at 1pm at Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church at 9300 Nall Ave, Overland Park, KS 66207. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Rotary Foundation, Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church or the charity of your choice.
