”’html”’Dennis W. Hockney”’html”’
Dennis W. Hockney, 81, of Antioch, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on May 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
Born March 25, 1943, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Dennis dedicated his life to education and community service. He earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts from Ball State University, where he was a charter member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. He later obtained his doctorate in Education from Indiana University.
Throughout his distinguished career, Dennis served as an elementary school principal in Tinley Park, Illinois, and Fort Knox, Kentucky, before becoming superintendent of schools in Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky, Madeira, Ohio, and Antioch, Illinois. His dedication to improving educational outcomes left a lasting impact on countless students and communities.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Dennis was actively involved in his community. He served on the Lake County Zoning Board of Appeals, the Village of Antioch Police Pension Board, and was a member of the Antioch Rotary Club. He was a devoted parishioner of St. Peter Catholic Church.
Dennis was passionate about travel, having visited countries on five continents. He also enjoyed reading, fishing, attending the theater, and cheering on his beloved Chicago Cubs and Indiana Hoosiers. Most importantly, he cherished spending time with his family, especially watching his grandchildren excel in their endeavors.
Dennis is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Linda; daughters Jen (Drew) Bratton and Becky (Mark) Nelson; grandchildren Delia, Rory, Luke, and Abby; and twin brother Daniel W. Hockney. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the communities he served.
A Memorial Visitation will be held from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 23, 2024, at Strang Funeral Home, 1055 Main Street, Antioch, Illinois. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 24, 2024, at St. Peter Catholic Church, 557 Lake Street, Antioch, Illinois, followed by interment at Hillside Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Antioch Rotary Scholarship Fund or the Open Arms Mission Food Bank.