Michael J. Goncher

Goncher, Ret. Richland Police Sgt. Michael J.,”Sarge”,64, of Richland Township. Went to Glory on Sept. 25, 2013 at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. Born Oct. 6, 1948, in Johnstown. Son of the late Francis and Rose Mary (McLaughlin) Goncher. Also preceded in death by former wife, Patricia E. (Bardo) Goncher. Survived by wife of 18 years, Jacqueline L. (Jeschonek); children, Michael (Tricia McCullough), Dixonville, PA; Eric (Susan Gorden), Richland; Jennifer Gore (Kirk Rowland), St. Michael; Joseph Gore, State College; Lynnette (Joshua Shuster), Richland; and Brianna, Ebensburg; Brothers, Daniel C. (Jeannine), Richland; and Thomas (Mary Jane), Richland; and 12 Grandchildren. 1966 graduate of Richland High School. Served as a Richland Twp. Policeman for 32 years. Mike also served the community as paramedic, MSP motorcycle instructor and a security guard. He was a devoted and active member of Emmanuel Baptist Church for over 30 years. Mike enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, riding his Harley and investing in his friends and family. He will best be remembered by his service to the Johnstown community and his “Goncher stories”. Family suggests donations to The Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, NW 628 UPMC Montifiore, and 3459 Fifth Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15213 in memory of Mike. Friends are invited to celebrate Mike’s life with a gathering of family and friends from 4-8 PM Friday Sept. 27, at Solomon Run Fire Co. pavilion. A formal public memorial service will be held at 1:30 PM on Oct. 6, 2013 at Emmanuel Baptist Church. Pastor Kirk Rowland, officiating. (Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com)