Dennis Ray Koch

FORDYCE — Dennis Ray Koch, 67, Fordyce, died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, July 9, 2019.

Visitation was Sunday at the Wintz Funeral Home, Hartington, and continued one hour prior to services Monday.

Mass of Christian Burial was July 15 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Fordyce, with Rev. Jim Keiter officiating.

Burial was in the St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Fordyce.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Wintz Funeral Home, Hartington.

Dennis was born Dec. 30, 1951, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Cletus Leo and Beverly Ann (Stukas) Koch. He grew up in the Fordyce area and graduated from Cedar Catholic High School in 1970. After graduation, Dennis attended Commercial Art School, Omaha. He married Pam Peterson Dec. 23, 1972, in Fordyce. After their marriage, Dennis worked as a commercial artist until they moved back to Fordyce in February 1973, to help his dad farm. He also raised hogs until 1991. Dennis worked in the maintenance department at the Yankton Inn, Yankton, S.D., for six-seven years. From 1998-2014, he worked for Gehl in Yankton, which is now Manitou Americas, primarily as a welder.

Dennis was a member of the St. John the Baptist Church, Fordyce. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, hunting, pool, golfing, horseback riding, playing slots and cooking. He was a talented artist and did commissioned art work for various people in the area.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Pam Koch, Fordyce; three sons, Chad & Jessi Koch, Fordyce; Eric Koch, Yankton, S.D.; and Shawn Koch, Yankton, S.D.; three sisters, Victoria and Larry Larson, Viborg, S.D.; Barb and Tom Cobler, Hartington; and Donna and Bill Lauer, Hartington.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant brother, George; beloved Arabian horse, Starfire; and his red wolf, Koda.