Doug Jochim

Doug Jochim of Billings, age 57, passed away Wednesday morning, June 27, 2012, of complications stemming from treatment for prostate cancer.

Doug was a very special person. He was loyal to his family, friends and coworkers, and always willing to give his time and considerable talent to help other people. Even after his death, he continued to help others through donation of his corneas so that someone else could see. Ever creative and artistic, he was as adept at throwing pottery and sketching as he was remodeling buildings. As an artisan, contractor and master craftsman, he put his mark on every project he worked on. One of Doug's keystone accomplishments was the renovation of St. Patrick's Co-Cathedral in Billings, where the results of his artistry are prominently visible in many areas throughout the cathedral.

Doug's departure has left a gaping hole in the lives of everyone who knew and loved him, and we will all sorely miss him.

Doug was preceded in death by his father, Otto. He is survived by his mother, Myrtle Jochim of Billings; his sisters, Linda (Terry) Madtson of Billings and Margaret (John) Simic of Roundup; brothers Dave (Mary) Jochim of Bellevue, Wash., and Steven (Ginger) Jochim of Draper, Utah; and special longtime friend Jayne Duenow of Billings. Doug is also survived by many nieces and nephews in Billings; San Diego; Draper, Utah; Seattle and Phoenix.

The family would like to thank Doug's many friends and coworkers who helped and supported him during his illness, with special thanks to Jayne Duenow, who was his companion throughout. Also, in keeping with Doug's interest in helping other people, the family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Billings Food Bank, St. Vincent DePaul or a charity of your choice.

A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Monday, July 2, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave.