James Peter Henry Gockel, age 62, born
December 24, 1962, and passed away on Friday,
July 25, 2025, beloved husband of Jacqueline (“Jackie,”neé Musson) Gockel. They were together 40 years. Their dog, Radar, was Jim’s faithful friend.
Jim’s parents, Gustav Adolph and Frances C. (neé Zimmerman) Gockel, preceded him in death. He is survived by his beloved siblings: Elizabeth (Edward Rosenberg), Peter (Stamatia, neé Fissas), Marie Schnee (Donald), and John (Eleanore, neé Kiss). Jackie’s siblings were also beloved by Jim: Robert Musson, Deborah Pieffer (Daniel), Joyce Dzik, Frank Dzik (Lisa, neé van Divner), and Michael Dzik. Jim adored Sephanie and Jessica Dzik as well as all his other nieces and nephews.
Jim was baptized at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1486 East 55th Street, Cleveland, Ohio, and attended St. Matthew Lutheran Day School and Thomas Jefferson Junior High. After a year at Max Hayes Trade School, he attended Lincoln West High School, graduating in June 1980. He worked for the Ohio State License Bureau, Dyke College, the Ohio Department of Ageing, Andrews Moving Company, and became Maintenance Manager of the Sterling Building in Downtown Cleveland.
Throughout Jim’s life and wherever he went, songs and music flowed from and through him. He enjoyed playing guitar and singing with friends, and formed the Joe Average Band with his friends Keith Thornhill, Sam Phillips, and Andrew (“Tiny”) Bird, in which he participated for 23 years. A multi-talented musician, he played many different stringed instruments. His band may be found on YouTube.
Jim loved to read books on history, politics and classical literature. He enjoyed working on vintage cars, telling stories, and making people laugh. His own laugh is memorable and was contagious.
In remembrance of Jim, donations may be made to the Cleveland Animal Protective League or an organization of your choice.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at Deon Metrik’s Party Center, 4560 State Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44109.
I remember Jim & Jackie met on our wedding day in 1984. Jim was a great guy. Rest in peace our friend, and love, and prayers for Jackie and family.
my deepest sympathy to you my friend Jackie and your family, you are never alone when you have the love and support of those around you, may peace be with you and may you find comfort in knowing that you are loved and in my prayers
Sad news Jim, a presence in many events in my life, with Jackie and Radar. Way too soon! Deepest sympathy to the Gockel family. Fond memories of Jim, his smile and his chops on that guitar. Rest easy friend . . .
You were always the life of my clam bakes. Your laughter will never be forgotten. Jim you are now our Jackie’s guardian angel. RIP. Well not to peaceful, keep the music lively up there!!!
I will always smile when I think of your laugh, your love for Jackie, and your absolute passion for music. Thank you for the encouragement and your friendship. Rest in Peace Jim.
I’ve known Jim since 1978. Had great conversations with him and we would hang out and go see live bands back in the day.
Will never forget his laughter! Was hoping to get together with him when we last talked in Mid July 2025. Rest well my brother and be sure to keep playing that guitar up there!