Thelma (McKey) Kochan

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thelma Kochan, a cherished wife, mother, Gran, sister, and friend. Thelma departed this world peacefully on May 21, 2026, at Anderson Hospital, surrounded by her immediate family and close friends, a testament to the love she cultivated throughout her life.

Born June 6, 1952, in Illinois, Thelma was the beloved daughter of Cecil McKey and Dorothy (Hiett) McKey.

She is survived by her husband of over four decades, Steve Kochan, with whom she shared a blessed union since December 29, 1984. Thelma's legacy lives on through her daughter, Amy Mortland Cadagin (Tim), her stepsons, Tom Kochan (Erin) and Jeff Kochan (Alison), and her treasured granddaughters: Mackenzie Cadagin, Shannon Cadagin, Molly Cadagin, Emily Rudicel, Kailey Kochan, Averie Kochan, and Aly Kochan.

She was preceded in death by her adoring parents and her brothers, Cecil McKey and Dorothy (Hiett) McKey, Harold Clark and Merle McKey, whom she now joins in eternal rest.

Also surviving are her brother Jimmy McKey, Sister-in-Law Barbara Swanson (Robert) along with countless beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, and great-great-nephews, who will forever hold her memory dear. Among her closest friends was Donna Billins (Bob) of Florida, a lifelong confidante and companion.

Thelma's life was marked by service and dedication. A proud graduate of Civic Memorial High School, class of 1970, she went on to serve the community for 35 years at the Wood River Township Assessor's office, where she held the position of Assessor for 12 years. Her commitment to her community extended beyond her professional life, as she was an active member of both the Wood River Women of the Moose and the Alton-Wood River Sportsman's Club. Thelma's warmth and generosity touched everyone she met. Known for her infectious smile and her desire to be a "Gran" to all, she built mutual love and care wherever she went. She found immense joy in spending time with her daughter and granddaughters, often indulging in her favorite pastimes of shopping and her second love of casinos, which she endearingly called the "ching ching." Though she has departed from this world, her legacy of kindness, care, and community will continue to inspire and uplift us all.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 26 from 4-8 pm at Marks Mortuary in Wood River.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10 am on May 27 at Our Lady Queen of Peace in Bethalto with Father John Wykes, OMV as celebrant.

Memorials are suggested to Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Bethalto and Alton 5 A's Animal Shelter.

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