Keith E. Kocher, 53, of Kunkletown, formerly of Palmerton, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, March 1, 2009 at the home he shared with his parents. Born: March 26, 1955 in Fountain Hill, he was a son of Raymond and Shirley Neuman Kocher. Personal: Keith was an auto-body technician working for MAACO Auto Body, Bethlehem for over 30 years. His true passion was stock car. Licensed by NASCAR, Keith was involved in racing since the age of 18 - running small block modified on both dirt and asphalt everywhere from New York to Florida. He was named Rookie of the Year in 1980. He drove for S& S Racing and Chip Santee Racing, as well as running his own #26 car. He retired from driving in 2005 and worked with the pit crews of Bobby Jones and Eddy Bauer, Eric Beers and many others. Because of his life-long knowledge and love for the sport, he remained active and was always available to help. Keith also helped his parents until their retirement from the family business at the former Shir-Ray Inn, Palmerton. Survivors: He is survived by his parents Raymond and Shirley, his devoted pet Max, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who all deeply mourn his loss. Services: Will be held 11 a.m. Friday, March 6, 2009 in the George G. Bensing Funeral Home, Inc., 2165 Community Dr., Route 946 Village of Moorestown-Bath, PA. Interment will be in Fairview Cemetery, Moorestown. A viewing will be held 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday in the funeral home.

Published by The Express Times on Mar. 2, 2009.