Rich Kokinda

Richard "Rich," affectionately known as "Pops," Kokinda passed away surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, devotion, and unwavering love. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years, Jeanne (Amato) Kokinda, whom he married in 1958. Jeanne passed away in 2018.

Rich was a proud graduate of Port Clinton High School and served his country with honor in the United States Navy for four years. After his years of service, he was employed at Camp Perry Proving Ground and Civilian Marksmanship. He then became the proud owner of Rich's Drive-Thru, where he was well known throughout the community.

A lifelong Gypsum boy, Rich took great pride in his hometown. He was a member of the Gypsum Knights, served as an honorary mayor of Gypsum Ohio, and played an active role on the Gypsum Reunion Committee. If you spent any time with Rich, chances are you heard one of his entertaining stories about adventures with his lifelong friends.

Rich was passionate about sports, especially Port Clinton football. As an honorary captain, he rarely missed a home game. He was also a devoted Notre Dame fan, and during football season you could often find him reading his Blue & Gold magazine, eagerly anticipating another great year.

More than anything, Rich cherished his family. He never knew a stranger and loved spending time shopping, vacationing, and making memories with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He especially treasured the years he spent caring for his grandson, Dale, every day until Dale's passing in 2019. Rich's love for his family was fierce and unconditional. He was also a faithful servant of God and dedicated member of Immaculate Conception Church. Known for his sharp sense of style, he always enjoyed looking his best.

Rich was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanne Kokinda; his parents, Joseph and Mary Kokinda; his brothers, Harold and Roland Kokinda; and his grandson, Dale Trent II.

He is lovingly survived by his daughters, Kim (Dale) Trent and Lori Kokinda; his son, Richard (Diane) Kokinda; his granddaughter, Tiffany (Joshua) Gwinn; his grandsons, Zachary (Mckenzie) Kokinda and Jake Kokinda; and his cherished great-granddaughters, Harper, Scout, and Ansley, along with many extended family members, dear friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Friends and family are invited to gather from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Gerner-Wolf-Walker Funeral Home, 216 Washington Street, Port Clinton, Ohio. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 20, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 414 Madison Street, Port Clinton, Ohio, where family will receive guests beginning at 10:00 a.m.. Interment will follow at Riverview Cemetery. Memorial donations in Rich's honor may be made to the Kokinda-Trent Memorial Scholarship through Immaculate Conception School.

Rich will be remembered for his kind heart, infectious storytelling, deep faith, love of family, and the joy he brought to every room. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the memories that will forever be cherished.