John P Bochnicka Jr. (known as “Boch” or “Face”), age 56, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday May 7, 2026 in a car accident. He was born on August 29, 1969 in Knox, IN to John Bochnicka and Sherry Sam's. John graduated from North Judson San Pierre High School in 1988 where he was a starting lineman on the Bluejays 1987 State Runner-Up team.
He was a man who loved working on cars and helping others whenever they needed it. He enjoyed being outdoors, going on adventures, and spending weekends searching yard sales for treasures he thought he might “possibly” need someday. His humor brought light to those around him, and many people will remember the laughter and smiles he shared so freely. Above all, he loved his children and family. Life was not always simple, and relationships sometimes carried distance and pain, but those close to him shared often how proudly and lovingly he spoke about his daughters and family.
In recent years, he had been walking a new path of recovery, faith, and healing. Through his recovery program, he found encouragement, purpose, and a community of people who cared deeply for him. Those who knew him during this chapter of his life often spoke highly of his kindness, honesty, and willingness to encourage others who were struggling. His faith in Jesus became an important part of his life. He returned to church and encouraged others to turn to Christ no matter their past or circumstances. He believed deeply in grace, second chances, and the power of God to change a life. Though his journey was not without hardship, he was committed to becoming the man God called him to be.
His survivors included his daughters : Miranda McCallum (Nickolas) of North Judson, Mariah Bochnicka (Dalston Fawley) of North Judson and Breighlee Bochnicka of Portage, grandchildren: Oaklyn, Layla, Bodie and Lillian, father John Bochnicka (Holley) of North Judson, mother Sherry Sams of Texas, brother Tom Bochnicka (Cheryl) of Monticello, sister Rhonda Mackey of Ohio, and former wife Debbie (Sanchez) Paul of North Judson.
He will be remembered not only for the struggles he endured, but for the courage it took to fight for a better life, the faith he found along the way, and the kindness and laughter he shared with others.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17
A Gathering of Friends and Family will be held on Friday May 15, 2026 at O’Donnell Funeral Home in North Judson from 2-4pm CST.
