Steven M. Hockman, 63, of Womelsdorf, PA, passed away suddenly on Friday, June 6, 2025, at Reading Hospital.
Born in Perkasie, PA, on Nov. 18, 1961, to the late Donald and Patricia Hockman. Steven graduated from John Handley HS in 1979 and completed his education in respiratory therapy from Shenandoah University. He went on to proudly serve in the U.S. Air Force, after which he continued his pursuit and passion to serve others through his work with Valley Health and Penn State Health, ultimately culminating his career as the Director of Pulmonary Diagnostics and Respiratory Services at St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Reading, PA.
Steven married his high school sweetheart, Robin Shade Hockman, on Feb. 18, 1984. His lifelong love for “Shadie” was the foundation to the family they built together with their two children, Zachary and Ciara, whom he unabashedly loved. As a father, he shared his endless wisdom, his gentle guidance, and his always curious, questing nature.
Never without a beast by his side, his dog River, his little “Annie,” took the highest mantle, one that had passed through many dear companions before her.
Steven loved to build and create, turning every place he touched into a thriving home. When Shadie said she wanted chickens, he built her the Taj Mahal. When she said she loved willow trees, he planted a field of them outside her back window. He completed more projects in a single morning than most men complete in a lifetime. Some of his finest work was on his great-grandfather’s cabin on Lake Wallenpaupack — a favorite of his, a place where he and Robin fell in love in their youth, a place always ready with bourbon, campfire, dear friends, and tales to tell.
“You were worth it, old friend, and a thousand times over.” — Where the Red Fern Grows
He is survived by his children, Zachary Hockman, and wife, Kelsey, and Ciara Hockman, and partner, Jimi; brothers, Thomas, Douglas (Robin B.), and Michael (Phyllis); nieces, Mikaela, Devan, and Kendra; and nephews, Nic and Derek.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph’s Medical Center Foundation, 2500 Bernville Road, Suite 2176, Reading, PA 19605.
