Steven Ray Kochheiser

Steven R. Kochheiser (Major on active status, Ohio Air National Guard), 40, passed away from a heart attack on March 6, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio. Born on March 27, 1984, Steven built a distinguished legal career culminating in his most recent role as Senior Associate General Counsel at The Ohio State University where he advised university officials and employees on research-related matters. Prior to this, he worked for the Defense Logistics Agency, Land and Maritime, focusing on government contracts and litigation. He began his legal career at the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and the Ohio State Dental Board. He also served in the Ohio Air National Guard as a Judge Advocate General (JAG) at both the 179th Cyberspace Wing (former Airlift Wing) in Mansfield, Ohio, and most recently at the 121st Refueling Wing at Columbus, Ohio. Enlisting right out of high school, Steven had a military career that spanned over 23 years of service; he was recognized with many achievements, including the Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, and Distinguished Graduate from Commissioned Officer Training. Steve deployed in several Temporary Duty assignments over the years with the 179th. Steven graduated from Lexington High School (2002) in Lexington, Ohio, and went on to attend Ohio Northern University. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science (2006) and later graduated from the Pettit College of Law (2013). He served as the manuscript editor for the ONU Law Review, and he published law review articles covering intellectual property law and international law of war. Beyond his career and academics, Steven found great joy in his family; he was the family historian who could remember all the dates and details and was the family technology “guru” and consultant. He also looked forward to organizing a fantasy football draft each year with friends. As a wonderful father, he had a way of making his daughters laugh and find joy in everyday moments. He was quiet but always had a witty and insightful response ready to share. His passions included spicy food and sauces, ice cream, history, and discovering the best “foodie” restaurants. He and his family also attended Grace Powell Church. Steven is survived by his wife, Suzanne, and daughters, Annalise and Julia of Columbus, Ohio; his parents, Ray and Sharon Kochheiser of Lexington, Ohio; his grandfather Darl Kline of Mansfield, Ohio; his brother, Nathan (Laura) Kochheiser; his sister, Katelyn (Matthew) George; and six nieces, Lydia, Emily, Isla, Zoe, Madison, and Eliana. Calling hours will be held at Rutherford Funeral Home in Powell, Ohio from 4-8pm Thursday, March 13. A military funeral service will be held on Friday, March 14, at 11am, with burial following at Kingwood Memorial Park in Lewis Center, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations to be made to support his daughters future education, extracurriculars, and anticipated needs. Donations can be made through Zelle. The account is findable through the email Kochheiser.suzanne@gmail.com. Online condolences may be shared at https://www.rutherfordfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/

Steven Ray Kochheiser

March 27, 1984 - March 6, 2025