Daniel William Gocken, 80, of Ridge Farm passed away on July 5, 2021, at his home with his wife and daughter. They will miss him dearly.
Dan was born on August 19, 1940, in Woodland, Illinois, to Lolita (Vaillancourt) Gocken and Wilbur “Bill” Gocken. They both preceded him. Also preceding him in death were his daughter, Charlotte, and his son John.
Dan is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary Ellen (Becker) Gocken; his daughter Debra Donaldson (Billy). His nine grandchildren: Jacob (Shanna) Collom; Jessica (Michael) Rakes; Jaydan Hardy; John Michael (Kayla) Gocken; Dusti Gocken; Matthew Gocken; Alex Donaldson; Alyssa Donaldson; and Luke Donaldson. His five great grandchildren: McKenna, Mason and Mya Collom; Aubryanna and Aliya Parker.
Dan loved his family more than anything and was a great mentor to all three generations. Dan loved to travel and many memories were made on vacations with his children and then grandchildren and many special trips with Mary Ellen.
Dan had many passions in life. He was a true fisherman. He played golf his entire life and has two hole in ones, at age 19 and age 71. He was an Indiana fan and loved the Cubbies. But his favorite teams were ones his kids played on and he was always there cheering them on from the sidelines.
Dan was a 32° Mason and a Shriner. He had a kind heart and would always lend a hand when needed.
Dan co founded Rescue Us, a faith based addiction program, dedicating his time, love and energy for the past six years. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be made to Rescue Us.
Memorial service will be held at the First Church of Christ, 503 North Main, Georgetown, Illinois on Saturday, July 10, 2021. A one hour celebration of Dan’s life with family and friends will be held from 2-3 p.m. with Masonic Rites at 3:00 p.m.
The family has entrusted Watson Cremation and Funeral Services to assist with arrangements.
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