David Hockey

Age 74, passed away on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 surrounded by family and friends. 

Born on October 5, 1949, Dave was the son of Bonnie (Levine) Hockey and Donald Hockey. 

He spent his childhood in the Roseland neighborhood of Chicago, graduating from Fenger High School with the class of 1967. After graduation, Dave joined the United States Air Force, where he served his country from 1970 to 1972 in Weapons Development. He then continued his service as an Air Force Reservist until 2009, retiring with the rank of Senior Master Sergeant. In recent years, he participated in the Military Timeline on Memorial Day at Abraham National Cemetery alongside his son Kyle.

Despite his dedicated service to his country, Dave remained active in various careers. He worked for Stepan Chemical as an operator, served as a truck driver for Swift Trucking from 2006 to 2015, and instructed at the Advantage Trucking school from 2015 to 2021. Additionally, he found fulfillment as a Fire Safety Specialist at both Chicagoland and Grundy County Speedways.

Outside of work, Dave enjoyed woodworking, playing guitar, and indulging in his love for reading, often consuming 2 to 3 books per week. He cherished family vacations and the memories created during their adventures.

David is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl, his daughters: Amber Hockey (Chuck Haffner), Erica Chiado, and his son, Kyle (Liz Henson); sister Nancy Vargo and sisters-in-law Shirley and Diane Stone, brother-in-law Rudy Stone, and numerous grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. 

Special acknowledgments are extended to their wonderful neighbors Bryan, Lois, and Cameron Stone, and special mention to Irene, Shana, and the staff at Lightways Hospice.

Dave is preceded in death by his parents; his sister Cynthia and brothers-in-law Briant Stone, Henry Kahsen, and Paul Vargo.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

Family and friends are welcome to assemble at Reeves Funeral Home, 75 North Broadway (one block north of Illinois Route 113) in Coal City on Thursday, May 23, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. and follow in procession to Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery where David will be laid to rest following military honors. 

Preferred memorials in Dave’s name may be made to the Air Force Sergeants Association, supporting military families in need.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs, and share David’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Coal City (815-634-2125)