​Kenneth Allen Rochester, 40, of New Philadelphia passed away on Friday, May 8, 2020 following a lengthy and hard-fought illness.

​Kenneth was born December 11, 1979 in Las Vegas, NV to parents David Allen and Rosemary Jane (Kutschinske) Rochester. Before Kenneth started the fourth grade, he and his family relocated to Ohio. He attended Indian Valley from that time through eighth grade, then transferred to Newcomerstown, where he graduated from in 1998.  Kenneth went on to obtain an associate's and bachelor's degree from Kent State University. He worked as an optician for LensCrafters located in the New Towne Mall. Kenneth enjoyed the outdoors and liked to golf, camp, fish, hike, and play badminton. He also enjoyed time indoors, playing video games, watching and collecting movies, and listening to music.  He loved animals and enjoyed the company of any he came across. The family referred to him as simply "Uncle". It was a title he cherished. Kenneth held a special fondness for his church family at Roxford Church.

Kenneth is survived by his sister Jennifer (Kenney Hibinger) Parrish, his step-mother Linda Hummell Rochester, nephews Gabriel, Memphis, Kendall, and niece Faith, a special "uncle" and friend, Carl (Barbara) James, stepbrothers Bill (Kathy) and Jim (Connie) Hummell, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and step, and great step-nieces/nephews.

Kenneth was proceeded in death by his parents, grandparents, several aunts and uncles and a cousin.

Friends are invited to call on Kenneth's family at Koch Funeral Home of Gnadenhutten, 244 N. Walnut St. Gnadenhutten on Tuesday May 12, 2020 from 3-5 p.m.  Funeral services will follow visitation at 5 p.m. at the funeral home and will be officiated by Pastor Ron Heasley.  Cremation will follow services and interment at Evergreen Cemetery will follow at a later date.  In the interest of public health, please prepare to engage in appropriate precautions to maintain pandemic recommendations. Donations may be made in memory of Kenneth to Roxford United Methodist Church, 771 Roxford Church Rd SE, Dennison, OH 44621.  Koch Funeral Home of Gnadenhutten is honored to be entrusted Kenneth's services.

UPDATED SERVICES: Kenneth will be laid to rest at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, June 13, 2020, in the East Avenue Cemetery, 1520 Delaware Dr SE, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663. Following the service at the cemetery, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Roxford Church Family Life Center, 661 Roxford Church Rd SE, Dennison, Ohio 44621.

Roxford United Methodist Church
771 Roxford Church Rd SE, Dennison OH 44621