Jesse Hockett

Jesse Hockett, age 26, of Warsaw, passed away Wednesday, May 26, 2010, at his shop near his home, due to injuries sustained in an electrical accident. He was born on September 7, 1983, in North Kansas City, the youngest son of Jack and Conny (King) Hockett. He grew up in Warsaw and graduated from Warsaw High School in 2002. After graduation, he attended State Fair Community College in Sedalia. On February 13, 2010, he was united in marriage to Tina Church at the Zion Lutheran Church in Lincoln. Jesse was a nationally recognized sprint car driver. He began racing at the age of 14, winning his first feature in only his third start at the Linn County Speedway in Pleasanton, Kan. Hockett went on to victory lane 130 times in his career that included stints with USAC, SCRA, ASCS Lucas Oil Sprint Car Series and the Sprint Bandits, where he was a two-time champion (2006 and 2007) and was the current points leader. Hockett was a fan favorite because of his fun loving nature and instant connection with fans both young and old. What separated Jesse from so many others was that he was never without a smile on his face and was always grateful for the opportunities that he received. While his on-track exploits 'wowed' the crowd, it was the Jesse that so many came to know off the track that will be remembered the most fondly. One of the true gentlemen of the sport, he accomplished so much at such an early age. He is survived by wife Tina, of the home; his parents, Jack and Conny Hockett, of Warsaw; two brothers, Robbie Hockett and his wife Christel, of Lone Jack, and Steve Hockett and his wife Rochelle, of Sedalia; two nieces, Rachel Hockett and Reagan Hockett; one nephew, Brett Hockett; two great-nephews, Kaeden and Kameron Hockett; other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and his cousin, close friend and crew chief, Daniel McMillin, in 2006. Funeral services for Jesse Hockett will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 1, 2010, at the Warsaw High School Gymnasium with Pastor Leonard Poppe officiating. Graveside services and interment will be held in the Shawnee Cemetery in Warsaw. Visitation will be held Monday from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the Reser Funeral Home in Warsaw. Memorial contributions may be made to the Jesse Hockett Memorial Fund, c/o the Reser Funeral Home. Messages of condolence may be made online at www.reserfuneralhome.com