Paul A. Kocurek, 71, of Taylorville, IL passed away on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 12:36 a.m. at his home in Taylorville surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 30, 1952, in Taylorville and was the son of Paul J. and Gloria (Spinner) Kocurek.  Paul graduated from Taylorville High School in the class of 1970, and he served in the United States Army from 1972-1974. He married Judy Hunsley on July 1, 1978, in Taylorville. He worked in the Coal Mine at Crown II and Crown III for 37 years and he retired in 2013. He enjoyed Nascar races, and he was a big St. Louis Cardinals fan.  He loved listening to games on the radio, watching them on TV, and attending games in person.  He loved going camping with friends.

Paul is survived by his wife: Judy Kocurek of Taylorville, IL; daughter: Kelli Kocurek of Oswego, IL; son: Shanon (Valerie) Kocurek of St. Louis, MO; sister Linda Moutrey of Keller, TX; brother: Steve (Angie) Kocurek of Stonington, IL; sisters-in-law: Becky and Glenna; brothers-in-law: Ernie and Roy; nieces and nephews: Paula (Shad), Lindsay (Jon), Charlee, Kyle (Jessica), Michele, Joyce (Todd), Norman, Beth (Danny), John, Scott, Steve, Angie, Carla, Shawn (Robbie), Crystal (Dylan), Jessika; and several great nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws:  Glen and Laura Hunsley, his brothers-in-law:  Don Moutrey and John Shull, his sister-in-law: Jeanne Hunsley, and nephew: baby Stephen Kocurek.

A private graveside service with military honors for family and close friends will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.  His first niece, Paula Moutrey, and friend, Brank Beck, will be officiating.  A Celebration of Life (all welcomed) will follow at Palomino Club in Taylorville from 1:00-4:00 pm.  

In lieu of flowers and plants, please donate to the VFW or American Legion in Taylorville or to the Taylorville Fire Department Angel Tree. 

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.