Benjamin Lee Kocher, lovingly known to many simply as “Pa,” passed away on May 15, 2026 at the age of 85, in the very home he built, surrounded by his family. Ben was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a truly kind and honorable man whose life was defined by integrity, humor, and an unwavering love for his family.

Born in Born in Bolivar, New York and raised in Potter County, Pennsylvania, Ben developed an early love for tractors and hard work that stayed with him throughout his life. He proudly served in the U.S. Army before returning to Pennsylvania, where he earned a Bachelor of Science from Millersville University of Pennsylvania. He then settled in the Scranton area to work as an Industrial Arts teacher at Lackawanna Trail and West Scranton Intermediate. This is when he met the love of his life, Carole, who would forever be his “Pearl.”

A lifelong builder in every sense of the word, Ben poured countless hours, days, and nights into creating a life for those he loved, above all for his daughter and son, whose achievements and the lives they built became, to him, the greatest and most rewarding sign that all his hard work had been worth it. His red truck became a symbol of his tireless dedication, always carrying him to the next project, job, or helping hand needed.

Of all the roles he held throughout his life, the one he cherished most was being “Pa.” He brought endless joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories to his grandchildren, from watching puffins in Maine to sharing ice cream at Manning’s and adventures through the corn maze at Roba Family Farms.

Ben will be remembered as a remarkable man with a generous heart, a sharp sense of humor, and a deep love for his family. He taught us the importance and the meaning of being productive, doing the right thing, and being kind, three values we will strive to carry forward as part of his legacy. While we mourn his loss, we also know he is enjoying his “quiet time” from above, watching over us as he did throughout his whole life.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carole; his loving children, Katharine and Glenn; and his cherished grandchildren, Benjamin, Samuel, Noa, Elias, and Eloise.

The funeral will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the Church of Saint Gregory in Clarks Green, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be held at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m., prior to the funeral service. Interment, Cathedral Cemetery. 

The family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Janet Erickson; Dr. Kishori; Jesse and Stephen from Hematology Oncology; Dr. John Kutz; and to The Hospice of the Sacred Heart, especially Leane, for the loving care, compassion, and support they provided to Ben and to our family.

For directions or to leave an online condolence, visit the funeral home website. 

Ben's care has been entrusted to Jennings-Calvey Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc., Clarks Summit.