Darrell 'Gene' Eugene Hockenberry

Darrell Eugene “Gene” Hockenberry, 92, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed peacefully on May 2, 2025 at Buffalo General Medical Center surrounded by his loving family.  Born on September 22, 1932 in Yatesboro, PA, he was the son of the late Darrell and Leona (Arbuckle) Hockenberry and the husband of Joanne (Olfano) Hockenberry.

Gene entered the Coast Guard in 1952, and received both the National Defense Service and Good Conduct Medals for his service. After settling in Niagara Falls, NY, Gene worked at Carborundum, where he met his loving wife Joanne. They married April 16, 1966. He later retired in February 1998.

He was an avid baseball player and NY Yankees fan. After many years devoted to playing and coaching baseball, he was inducted into the Old Timers Hall of Fame on October 30, 2004.

Gene cherished his time with family and enjoyed visiting with friends. In addition to his wife of 59 years, he is survived by daughters, Wendy Hockenberry and Daria (Michael) Veltri; son, Derek (Sarah) Hockenberry; beloved grandchildren, Adam and Joel Woytila, Pamela and Sophie Veltri, Phia and Kaiden Hockenberry; brothers, Junior and Jerry Hockenberry, as well as several nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly. He was also predeceased by his brother, John Hockenberry.

All are welcome to gather for visitation on Thursday, May 8th, from 5-7 p.m. at the OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME AND NIAGARA COUNTY CREMATION CARE, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY (716-297-9007), where Gene’s funeral service will be held at 7:00 p.m., concluding with Military Honors. Private prayers of committal and interment in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Tonawanda, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice.

Gene’s family has entrusted his care to the Goodlander family.  Share condolences and memories at GOODLANDERCARES.com

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