Bernard Koch

Bernard ?Bernie? Koch was born on August 24, 1930, in Melrose, Minnesota the son of Bernard & Mary (Enneking) Koch. He graduated from Melrose High School. After his schooling he was drafted into the United States Navy and served his country during the Korean War. Bernard was united in marriage to Rita Betts on April 4, 1956, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Osakis. To this union three sons were born. During his working career Bernie worked for the Department of Agriculture as a Supervisor and was admired and a real mentor to his co-workers. Bernie enjoyed working on electronics, computers and listening to music. He was a real inspiration to people and was a good role model for others to follow. Bernard died on Sunday, July 31, 2011. He is survived by his wife, Rita of 55 years; sons: Jim of Topeka, Kansas, Dave, Don & wife, Kathy of Drexel, Missouri; seven grandchildren: Ryan, Stefanie, Cyndi, Heather, Josh, Greg and Curtis; sisters: Clara & husband, Albert Stadther, Winifred Sarrack. He was preceded in death by his parents and nine brothers and sisters: Hilda, Hannah, Laurence, Raymond, Loretta, Alphonse, Norbert, Valaria, Rosemary. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, August 3, 2011, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary?s Catholic Church with Rev. Steve Binsfeld officiating. Burial will be at St. Mary?s Cemetery in Alexandria. Military honors were by American Legion Post 87 VFW Post 936 and the MN National Guard.