Fred Ochroch; ran many businesses

Fred A. Ochroch, 74, of Malvern, a businessman dubbed by his family "the ultimate entrepreneur," died Thursday, Jan. 10, of pancreatic cancer at home.

"He had the most diverse interests," said his daughter Kathy. "He liked all different types of business, and excelled at it, and had fun with it, too."

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Mr. Ochroch resided for the last 25 years with his family in Malvern.

After graduating from Lincoln High School, and then from Pennsylvania State University in 1960 with a bachelor's degree in business administration, Mr. Ochroch became involved in what would be the first of many enterprises.

Along with Ken Taylor, he cofounded Taylor & Ochroch Insurance Co., now in King of Prussia. The company is still in business, but Mr. Ochroch had no role at the time of his death.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Mr. Ochroch was the owner of the Swan Shoe Co., now defunct; owner of T-Bowl Lanes in Wayne, N.J.; and co-owner of the Playhouse Inn in New Hope.

For the last 33 years, his primary role was as owner and president of Werner Bus Lines Inc. in Phoenixville. Founded 80 years ago, the firm offers adventure and charter bus trips.

He was an athlete, excelling at skiing, handball, racquetball, and tennis. He enjoyed biking through Valley Forge National Historical Park, and once went on a monthlong bicycle trek from Melbourne to Sydney, Australia.

He had visited six of the seven continents, and in 2008 took a trip around the world to Easter Island, Cambodia, India, and Africa. He also loved debating politics and current events.

"He knew a lot about law, biz, and the stock market," his daughter said. "He had an opinion on everything and was happy to share it."

Mr. Ochroch was an active member of Zeta Beta Tau fraternity and the Penn State Alumni Association, as well as a Penn State football fan.

Surviving, in addition to his daughter, are sons Jeffrey and Heath; another daughter, Jenna; a grandchild; a sister; Stephanie Rossello, with whom he shared his life for the last 12 years; and four first cousins.

A memorial service will be at noon Sunday, Jan. 13, at the Phoenixville Foundry, 2 N. Main St. Interment will be private.

Contributions may be made to the Fred A. Ochroch MBA Fellowship, Smeal College of Business, Pennsylvania State University, 1 Old Main, University Park, Pa. 16802.