Wayne Francis Hochard, 93, of Wetmore, KS, passed away Friday, October 10, 2025 at his home. He was born January 29, 1932 in Corning, KS, the son of Clarence J. and Anna L. (Miller) Hochard.

Wayne graduated from Corning High School. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1950 to 1971; earning rank as E-7 and CPO.

He was a lifelong farmer and stockman and worked for Rockwell International in Atchison as a mechanic until retirement.

He was a member of Corning American Legion Post 37 and NRA.

Wayne married Emiko "Emily" Taniguchi on October 7, 1954 in Japan. They celebrated 47 years of marriage before her passing in 2001.

Survivors include 2 sons, John Hochard (Sharon) of Holton, KS and Michael Hochard (Amy) of Topeka, KS; 3 sisters, Theresa Rethman of Corning, KS, Rita Smutny of Hoyt, KS and Patricia Smith of Topeka, KS; a brother, Maurice Hochard of Topeka, KS; 3 grandchildren, Bryon Hochard (Roe), Chase Hochard (Britney) and Cooper Hochard and 5 great-grandchildren, Piper, Bruce, Blair, Maya and Lyla.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Anna Hochard; infant daughter, Patricia Hochard; 2 sisters, Rosemary Haug and Irene Donahy; 2 brothers, Clarence, Jr. and Glen Hochard and a granddaughter, Kristen Mellenbruch.

A graveside Service with Military Honors will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, October 17, 2025 at Wetmore Cemetery. Wayne will lie in state from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton.

Memorials may be given to the Corning American Legion Post 37 c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhoms.com.