GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

The U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation has recently learned of the death of Lt. Col. (Ret.) John M. Kochanski, CS-16, Class of 1963. Col. Kochanski passed away on May 18, 2026, in Independence, Missouri.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on June 17, 2026, at St. Mark Catholic Church, 3736 S Lee's Summit Rd., Independence, Missouri.

His family has suggested memorial donations be made in lieu of flowers to the Independence Police Department, 17221 E. 23rd St. South, Independence, MO 64057 or Independence Fire Department, 950 N Spring St.,
Independence, MO 64050.

Condolences may be left online with his obituary or sent to his family in care of his wife, Carleen:

Mrs. Carleen Kochanski

2920 Brentwood Ct

Independence, MO  64055-2159

3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, Colorado 80840