Irma A. Hocking

Irma A. Hocking, age 97, of Rockford, IL, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 20, 2025 at Amberwood Care Center. She was born on January 5, 1928 in Bayreuth, Germany to Andreas and Olga Leucht. She is survived by her children: Ron Hocking (Rayna Bauer), Diane (Jeff) Leeson, grandchildren: Dave (Mary) Hocking, Jenna and Jack Leeson, and great grandchildren: Austin, Aidan, and Ava Hocking. She is predeceased by her parents, Andreas and Olga; brother, Christian; and grandson, Sam Leeson.

Irma grew up in Ansbach, Germany where she worked as a telephone operator and met her future husband Bernie, who was serving in the army at the time. Irma came to the United States in 1947 and married Bernie on December 4, 1948. They were happily married for 54 years before his passing. Irma worked as an admitting clerk at Rockford Memorial Hospital for over 30 years. She was a longtime member of the Cathedral of St. Peter. As a loving mother and grandmother, Irma’s happiest moments were spending time with her family, especially celebrating holidays and birthdays. She was also an avid Green Bay Packers fan and made sure to never miss a game. 

Irma will be remembered by her family for her kind and loving spirit. Her love for her family never wavered. Although no longer with us in physical form, her spirit will live on in the hearts of her children and grandchildren forever. She will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. 

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at the Cathedral of St. Peter (1243 N. Church St., Rockford, IL 61103). Visitation will be held from 9:30am - 10:30am. Mass will begin at 10:30am. Burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery (8616 West State St., Winnebago, IL 61088).

The family expresses their sincere gratitude to Unity Hospice for their kindness, compassion, and support during Irma’s final days. 

"Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure."