James Eugene Ochs

February 3, 1943 — February 8, 2024

Austin, Texas

James Eugene Ochs, known affectionately as Jim by his loved ones and friends, passed away peacefully surrounded by his children on February 8, 2024, in Round Rock, Texas. Born on February 3, 1943, in Wichita, Kansas, he was the eighth of nine children of Theodore "Ted" Henry Ochs and Marie Katherine (Bisterfeldt) Ochs. Jim's life was defined by his servant's heart and unwavering dedication to his family as a loving and devoted father and grandfather.

Jim grew up in a lively household and graduated from Wichita East High School in 1961. His thirst for knowledge led him to attend a year at Wichita State University. Not long after, he served his country as a missile technician with the U.S. Army Air Defense Command from 1962 to 1966, an experience that shaped much of his early adult life. After his military service, Jim embarked on a career that would see him work for EDS in various technical and managerial roles that took him from New York City to Dallas and eventually to Austin in 1976.

After three years as a mainframe programmer with the Texas Comptroller's office, Jim joined the Austin Police Department in 1980, playing a pivotal role in computer operations and management. Jim often reflected on how this was the most rewarding time in his career and enjoyed sharing stories during drives around town when passing city properties he had helped set up. In 1998, Jim rejoined the State of Texas as a systems analyst until his retirement in 2005. Throughout his career, his colleagues and superiors greatly valued Jim's sharp mind and attention to detail.

A devoted Great Hills Baptist Church member, Jim actively participated in the Eagle Wings Sunday school class. He enjoyed many fellowship activities at Great Hills and traveled to Brazil in 2005 on a share-and-learn mission trip. Faith was a cornerstone of Jim’s life; he lived his beliefs through his actions and interactions with others.

Jim's passions extended beyond his professional and spiritual life. He had an insatiable love for eating, as those who knew him would attest to his appreciation for a good meal. His affection for animals was profound, especially for dogs, which were constant companions throughout his life. His home was a haven for various plants, reflecting his green thumb and the joy he found in nurturing life. An avid walker, he found solace and pleasure in the simple act of taking a stroll, whether in his neighborhood or nature. The cinema was one of his favorite escapes, and his library of jokes never failed to elicit laughter from friends and family. Moreover, Jim had a lifelong fascination with cars and enjoyed exploring the latest automotive technologies and designs.

Jim was a cherished patriarch, survived by his children, Matthew (wife Wei-Shan) and Melissa; his grandchildren, Charlotte, Cadence, and Wyatt; his sister, Ila (husband L.B.) Teeter of Rogers, AR; his brother, G.I. (wife Barbara) Ochs of Rogers, AR; and many loved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Marie Ochs, and siblings: Lavon Dwane Ochs, Jay Dee Ochs, Gwenneth Leigh (Ochs) Bullock, Theodore Henry Ochs Jr., John David Ochs, and Anna Marie (Ochs) Danneels. Each family member held a special place in his heart, and his guidance and love will be missed dearly.

Jim's journey through life was a testament to the power of a warm heart and a generous spirit. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend. May he rest in peace, and may his story inspire love, kindness, and compassion in us all.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 25th, at 4:00 PM at Cook Walden Chapel of the Hills, 9700 Anderson Mill Rd, Austin, TX 78750. Family and friends may gather from 3:00 PM until one hour after the service. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be sent to an animal charity of their choice.