Loretta Koch

Loretta Mae Koch, 80, Mandan, ND, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her family.

A memorial service will be 10:30 AM Saturday, September 21 at Parkway Funeral Service 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck. Family will greet visitors one hour prior to the service. 

Loretta was born on October 23, 1943 to Anton and Katherine (Gaab) Wetsch in Mandan. Loretta grew up on the family farm near Fort Rice and was the second oldest of five children. She was schooled in a one room schoolhouse in nearby Odense and went on to graduate Mandan High School in 1960. As a teenager she served frosty treats at the S&K Dairy, moved up to Dental Assistant, went to work for Montgomery Ward for many years, and then on to Arrowhead Cleaners until she retired at 76.

Loretta married Dave Koch in 1964 in Mandan where they had three children, Bryan, Craig, and Kim. Loretta enjoyed cooking holiday meals, growing flowers, gardening, and crafting, especially Diamond Art. Loretta's favorite time was spent with her only grandchild Liam.

Loretta is survived by her husband, David of 60 years; two sons, Bryan and Craig, one daughter Kimberly (Cameron) Oliver and their child Liam; Loretta's twin sister Bernetta Broadhead; the youngest sister Cindy Flegel, her brother Dale (Jeanette) Wetsch and sister-in-law, Judi (Rich) Fockler as well as many nieces and nephews.

Loretta was preceded in death by her parents, Anton and Katherine Wetsch; brother Erv Wetsch, brother-in-law Jerry Broadhead and brother-in-law Larry Flegel.