Ian Phillip Bockus

Ian Phillip Bockus, 33, entered into eternal rest on September 18, 2024.

Born in New Brunswick he was raised in Branchburg but was always a Somerville Kid. He was a part of Somerville Recreation Sports where he followed in his big cousin’s footsteps and developed a love for the sport of wrestling. He was the last of a generation who grew up outside, where time spent playing sports in the field like paint-ball and man-hunt was a way of life until it was dark outside. Ian loved to spend time by the water, whether jumping from the Neshanic Bridge, kayaking on the Raritan River or fishing in the D&R Canal, he found his joy in nature. He was a fearless spirit, after swimming with sharks in Disney, he found it no different at the Jersey Shore and enjoyed the peaceful time in the empty ocean when a shark warning was given. His love of animals was indiscriminate, he would help any stray of any species, even taking home an injured doe. Ian’s love of the outdoors led him to a career in Tree Service where he loved being amongst the trees.

He grew up spending summers camping on the islands in Lake George, times that would bring memories of joy and peace his entire life. Ian loved conversations with his great-“Uncle Bill” who would share his experience in World War II and sparked a love of American History. He was known for always learning and full of facts, his intelligence made watching Jeopardy impossible as he knew all the answers. Ian grew up on good music, especially Bruce Springsteen, Post Malone and many others. His love of music was not just based on the beat but the impact of the lyrics. He spent his free time camping, cooking, listening to good music, and spending quality time with his friends. Ian was not just a friend but a best friend and a family member to many. His loyalty,compassion and sense of humor with a contagious laugh will always be remembered. He was a protector and the biggest cheerleader and supporter to those he loved.

Ian had an innate compassion of serving those in need. From the day he entered the world he was committed to helping others. With influences from his paternal grandfather Reverend Ian L. Bockus, a Cannon in the Episcopal Church, and his maternal grandfather Phillip Kalmback, a Life Member of the Somerville Fire Department, Ian had a foundation of service that everyone who knew him would attest to. He put others before himself to a fault and will always be remembered for the gifts of love and compassion he shared to those who needed them the most.

Surviving are his loving parents, Phyllis Kalmback and Kevin Bockus, his dear sister Sarah Bockus, his paternal grandmother and step grandfather, his children Liam and Luna, loving aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Memorial visitation will be held from 2:00 to 5:00PM on Sunday, September 29, 2024, at Cusick Funeral Home, 80 Mountain Avenue, Somerville.

Funeral services with reflections will begin at 5:00PM

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ian’s name can be sent to:

Not An Easy Fix

3 Bridle Path Lane

Hampton, NJ. 08827 or by Clicking Here

Or

Wildlife Center Friends Organization

PO Box 161

Titusville, NJ 08560 or by visiting Clicking Here