Dale Kocher reflects on a life marked by love, faith, and purpose. From his humble beginnings in Eclectic, Alabama, to a 40-year career in corporate insurance, Dale’s story is one of steady growth and deep transformation. He opens up about discovering a personal relationship with Christ later in life, his lasting marriage of over five decades, and the joy he’s found in volunteering—especially at the Montgomery Cancer Center. With wisdom gained through family, travel, and faith, Dale reminds us that a meaningful life is built not only on success, but on showing up for others with a smile and a servant’s heart.

BOOM: You grew up in Eclectic, Alabama, near Lake Martin. It’s become quite a popular destination spot now, but what was it like growing up there back when it was a much quieter place? How did that shape your childhood?

Dale: I was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, but after losing my father when I was just 9 months old, my mother packed up our family and moved us to her hometown of Eclectic. She said, “I’m not raising these two boys in this God-forsaken country.” Eclectic was a small town, quiet but full of character. And of course, Lake Martin was right there, though back then it was dotted with simple cabins—not the mansions you see today.

We swam anywhere, wore whatever, and ate wherever we could. Men fished. Women cooked. People honked when they passed each other—it was rural America at its best. Growing up there, I learned how to get along with all kinds of people—city folks, country folks, fast talkers, and quiet types. It gave me a real appreciation for community. Sports were a big part of life too. Playing high school ball in a small town could shape your future. But heading off to a large university like Auburn was a whole new world—it required a big adjustment.

BOOM: You attended Auburn University. What are some of your favorite memories from your time there? How did your experience on the Plains shape your outlook on life?

Dale: My mom and stepdad dropped me off at Auburn for fraternity rush, and I just dove in. I joined Lambda Chi Alpha and learned how to have a good time—but I didn’t yet know how to buckle down and study. It took time to figure that out.

College life taught me about friendships—some of those friends are still with me, others have passed on. It also taught me how to learn, not just academically but practically. I realized I needed to develop real-world skills to build a future. Life at Auburn helped shape me in ways that stretched far beyond the classroom.

BOOM: You spent 25 years working at Southern Guaranty Insurance. What kept you so dedicated to the company for such a long time, and how did your role evolve over the years?

Dale: During my junior year at Auburn, I met my wife Jean. She had already graduated and was teaching school. We got married before I finished my last quarter, so I had to start thinking seriously about a career. My brother suggested I look into corporate insurance management—which at the time, I didn’t even understand.

I spent the first 12 years of my career with two insurance companies, gaining experience in all aspects of the business. Overall, I dedicated 40 years to the corporate insurance industry, joining Southern Guaranty in 1983, where I remained until my retirement. Corporate life is defined by your efforts—you must learn your job, develop your skills, and continue to grow.

Over time, new ownership came in, and I helped oversee the development of our new office on Taylor Road. I worked with great people and stayed committed to progressing. By the time I retired in 2008, we had over 150 employees and managed a budget of more than $100 million. It was a career I’m proud of.

BOOM: In your role at Southern Guaranty, you had the opportunity to help people. What was one of the most rewarding parts of your job, and do you have a specific story that stands out to you?

Dale: It’s hard to explain how you impact others in the moment, but over time, you realize the significance. One of the most meaningful things we did was start a Wednesday morning devotional at work, often led by John Ed Mathison. Other ministers from Frazer filled in when John Ed couldn’t be there. The Wednesday morning devotional continued until our company closed.

Even years later, I still hear from former employees—through texts, phone calls, or even Facebook messages—saying how much they miss the people and the sense of community we had. When you genuinely care about people and show them love, it stays with them. Those friendships don’t end with retirement.

BOOM: Staying with one company for 25 years is uncommon these days. What do you think allowed you to remain at Southern Guaranty for so long, and how did that impact your work-life balance and career satisfaction?

Dale: Work-life balance and satisfaction aren’t always easy. Life throws a lot at you—marriage, kids, your faith walk, and career demands. But I’ve always believed: you get out of it what you put into it.

Looking back, I was satisfied with my working life. Sure, I could have chased more success, but I don’t regret a thing. I think having the right support system—whether from family, friends, or faith—helps you stay grounded. That kind of guidance can be hard to come by, but it makes all the difference.

BOOM: You’ve mentioned that your faith in Christ became real later in life, after “playing church” for about 25 years. Can you tell us more about that turning point and what it was like to experience that transformation?

Dale: I grew up doing what I was told—go to church, believe in God—but it wasn’t personal. In college, church wasn’t really part of my life. Jean and I were active in our church after we married, and I even became a deacon in 1975. I remember telling a lady at work, and she said, “You’re not qualified.” It stung at the time, but later, I understood what she meant.

The real transformation came in 1993 when we joined Frazer Church. My brother John and my friend Kline Jeffcoat challenged me to take a deeper look at my walk with Christ. I got involved in Promise Keepers, walked the Emmaus Walk, and joined Bible Study Fellowship—attending for 12 years and leading for another 12. That’s when faith became real for me.

BOOM: As your faith deepened, you began serving in the church and making it your mission to make others’ lives brighter. How did that shift in mindset affect your approach to serving others?

Dale: Once faith becomes real, it changes how you see the world. I believe we’re all called to serve—not because someone asks you to, but because you want to. I try to inspire others to do the same. Whether it’s at church or in daily life, I want to be a bright light for those I encounter. That’s what Jesus has done for me.

BOOM: In retirement, you’ve dedicated a lot of your time to volunteering, particularly at the Montgomery Cancer Center. What has your role there been like, and what keeps you motivated to give back?

Dale: After I retired, a friend called and said, “Why don’t you come volunteer at the Cancer Center?” I asked, “What do you do there?”—and 15 years later, I’m still doing it.

I greet people, help with wheelchairs, assist with check-ins, carry files, and serve refreshments. But most importantly, I show up with a smile. People walking through those doors are dealing with a lot, and just being kind can make a difference in their day. Volunteering has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my life. I tell everyone: If you’re going to retire, find something meaningful to do.

BOOM: Volunteering at the cancer center must give you a unique perspective. How has it impacted you personally, and what have you learned from the people you’ve met there?

Dale: It definitely changes you. Sometimes, all a person needs is a smile to make their heart beat a little better. Not everyone survives, but many do.

You can’t control the outcomes, but you can control how you treat people. I’ve met so many wonderful individuals, and I often run into them in public. It brings me joy just to know I may have brightened someone’s day, even just a little.

BOOM: You’ve lived in Montgomery for many years now. What do you enjoy most about living here, and is there anything you’d like to see more of in the community?

Dale: Life brought Jean and me here—she’s a Lanier graduate and a proud Montgomery native. We’ve been married 54 years. Montgomery has had its challenges, but we’ve also seen it grow.

It’s a special place—close to the mountains, close to the beach, and close to our hearts. Our son Jason and his family are here too, so we get to watch them grow. That’s what life is all about—being present and taking part.

BOOM: Looking back, what has been the toughest challenge you’ve faced, and how did you overcome it?

Dale: Life hands you plenty of challenges. Corporate life can wear you down if you let it. But you’ve got to educate yourself, grow in your profession, and anchor yourself in faith. Life is tough. You have to be tougher. Christ will help you through.

BOOM: You’ve been married to Jean for many years. What’s the key to maintaining a strong marriage, especially now in retirement?

Dale: Marriage isn’t easy. I didn’t have a lot of guidance growing up, so we just figured it out as we went. Fifty-four years together—through job changes, economic shifts, and life’s ups and downs.

We’ve always stayed active—at church, with friends, and with family. The key is showing up for each other every day. She’s always been on my side, and I’ve been on hers. That’s what makes it work.

BOOM: You and Jean have been avid travelers since the 1980s. What are some of your favorite trips, and how has travel shaped your lives?

Dale: We started traveling in the late ’80s, chaperoning high school trips to Europe. Later, we began going on trips with other couples. We’ve been fortunate—traveling from England to Greece, Australia to New Zealand.

We’ve cruised from Venice to Rome, Barcelona to the Canary Islands. We’ve explored Normandy, Florence, Paris, and more. Every trip has taught us something. You see history come alive. It’s unforgettable.

BOOM: What is it you and Jean enjoy so much about cruising?

Dale: Cruising is a different kind of travel—it takes planning, but it’s incredibly rewarding. From excursions to dining to days at sea, it’s all about how much you put into it. We enjoy every moment, and we’re grateful for the experiences. God’s been good to us.

BOOM: Having traveled the world, what are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned from experiencing different cultures together?

Dale: The biggest lesson? The world is different everywhere—but that’s the beauty of it. Don’t let differences discourage you. Instead, plan, organize, and stay open-minded. We’ve learned to appreciate what each place offers. And no, I’m not a travel agent—but I’m always happy to talk trips.

We want to thank Dale for sharing some of his story with us this month. If you have comments or suggestions about our cover profiles, including nominating someone, please text Jason Watson at 334.328.5189 or email jason@riverregionboom.com.