James R. Koch

1933-2020

James R. Koch, 86, of Westboro, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020 at Rib Lake Health Services. A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 25 at First Lutheran Church in Westboro with Pastor Steve Weston officiating. Visitation will take place at the church on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Military honors will be performed following the service by the Westboro VFW Post No. 7817. Burial will take place at a later date at Mt. Olive Cemetery.

James was born on Aug. 1, 1933 in Unity to Milton and Beatrice (Safemaster) Koch. He served in the Navy from 1951-1954. After his service he married Bernice Leischer on March 23, 1957 at First Lutheran Church in Westboro. James worked road construction for 10 years. He then went on to work for Tombstone Pizza for 25 years until his retirement. In his retirement he enjoyed fishing, camping, hunting, woodworking projects and gardening. James was a member of the Westboro VFW, Westboro First Lutheran Church and served on their council, and the Westboro Conservation Club.

James is survived by his wife, Bernice; children, Jim (Kim) Koch of Rib Lake, Lori (Fran) Dums of Westboro and Jeff (Amy) Koch of Hatley; grandchildren, James and Kurt Koch, Ben Dums and Rebecca Rohland; and great-grandchildren, James and Wesley Koch and Bentley Dums. James is further survived by his siblings, Jerry (Betsy) Koch, Bonnie Fischer, Dennis (Carol) Koch and Janice VanDuser and by many other family and friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jack Koch; and great-grandson, Gavin Dums.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in James’ name may be given to either the Westboro VFW or First Lutheran Church.

Hemer Funeral Services of Medford and Rib Lake have been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.

com.

Paid Obituary 84176