George Alfred Bocquin

Mass of Christian Burial for George Bocquin, 96, will be held at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Lawrence at 10:00 AM Friday, January 30, 2026. The inurnment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Reading, KS. He passed away Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Lawrence Memorial Hospital following a brief illness.

George was born August 1, 1929 to Peter F. and Mary L. (Barnett) Bocquin in Reading, KS. He was the sixth of eight children. After graduating from high school in 1947, he became a telegrapher for the Santa Fe Railroad at Lebo, KS. George’s career with Santa Fe brought him to Lawrence in 1956 until he retired in the early 1990’s.

On June 24, 1948, George married his high school sweetheart W. Ailene (Johnson). They had two daughters, Mary (Leland) Juel and Peggy (Troy, 1952-2018) Palmer, both of Lawrence. In 1972, they welcomed nephews, Dennis M. (Lisa) Bocquin and Lary J. Bocquin as their foster children.

George played point guard for Reading High School’s basketball team. In 1947, he scored a record 36 points at the Lyon County League Tournament Championship game; a record that lasted decades. Later in life, he became a passionate golfer and could often be found at Jayhawk Club (originally Alvamar Country Club). He won many tournaments and prizes. After retirement, he was asked by the Kansas Golf Association to serve on the committee to rate area golf courses.

He was predeceased by his wife of 68 years Ailene, parents, Peter and Mary Bocquin, brothers Charles, Victor, Ernest and Don. Sisters Louise and Marguerite. His son-in-law, Troy, and foster son, Lary.

George is survived by his sister Delores (Cason), daughters, foster son, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

A Rosary will be recited at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, January 29, 2026 at Warren McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence with a visitation following until 8:00 p.m.

Memorials may be made in his name to the Douglas County Visiting Nurses or St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and can be sent in care of the Warren-McElwain Mortuary.