Former South Euclid Mayor John Kocevar Passes Away at 91

John Kocevar, who served as the mayor of South Euclid, Ohio, from 1992 until 2003, passed away on January 20, 2024, at the age of 91. His death came surrounded by his wife of 68 years, Terry Kocevar, and their four children, Marilyn, Lisa Neelon, Barbara Zinner, and John.

Legacy of Leadership and Community Engagement

Current Mayor Georgine Welo expressed deep admiration for Kocevar, recalling many cherished memories of his leadership. “I was very honored to serve alongside Mayor John Kocevar during my time on South Euclid City Council,” Welo stated. “Under his guidance, we initiated a renaissance in the city starting in 1992.”

During his tenure, Kocevar was instrumental in implementing various programs, including a pilot recycling initiative, a strategic plan, and the establishment of an Enterprise Zone. Welo noted that these efforts contributed to the city’s flourishing business environment.

Welo’s friendship with Kocevar dates back to the early 1980s when he campaigned for a council position. “I remember it like yesterday,” she said, recalling how Kocevar approached her family for signatures in support of his candidacy. “We were honored to help him, and little did we know he would eventually become our mayor.”

Kocevar first won election in a runoff held on December 3, 1991, campaigning on the promise of an “open style of government” and an open-door policy. Welo highlighted that this approach was quite progressive for the time, and it demonstrated his commitment to community engagement.

A Lasting Impact on the Community

Despite their close friendship, Welo and Kocevar faced each other in the 2003 election, where Welo emerged victorious. Following his defeat, Kocevar retired from public office. “John loved and admired his wife, Terry, who was his biggest supporter,” Welo reflected. “But his children and grandchildren were his true pride and joy.”

Moe Romeo, who was appointed to fill the Ward 2 council seat after Kocevar became mayor, spoke of their long-standing connection, having known each other since the mid-1960s. “John was dedicated to his family and friends,” Romeo said, emphasizing Kocevar’s ability to maintain close relationships with those in his life.

Romeo noted Kocevar’s commitment to balancing the city’s budget during challenging times. “He was adamant about staying within budget, which was difficult, but he was successful in doing so,” he added. “He played a key role in revitalizing Cedar Center shopping area, which flourished under his leadership.”

Kocevar is survived by six of his seven grandchildren and was a great-grandfather to six. In lieu of flowers, his family requests contributions be made in his memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Visitation will occur from 14:00 to 18:00 on January 25, 2024, at DeJohn Flynn Mylott Funeral Home located at 4600 Mayfield Road in South Euclid. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 on January 26, 2024, at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, 1545 S. Green Road, South Euclid.

An online obituary and guestbook are available at DeJohnCares.com.