Nancy Ann Koch, 84, of Valparaiso passed away peacefully at home on Friday, June 9, 2023. She was born December 5, 1938 in Valparaiso to Robert & Dorothy (Skinner) Stephens and graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1957. Nancy made her career in food service, first with Valparaiso Schools and then with Valparaiso University spanning nearly 40 years and culminating with her retirement in 2008. Tending her garden. maintaining her yard and cooking for her family seemed to bring her great satisfaction. Her easy laugh made you know she cared about you. Keeping her home in a very orderly fashion gave her peace of mind, and if you contributed to any disorder in her home she may give you a piece of her mind.
In 1958 she married David A. Koch who preceded her in death in 2004. Survivors include their children; Elizabeth (Thomas) Wright of San Pierre, Carrie Koch of Minnesota, Kevin Koch of Valparaiso, Jeffrey Koch of Tennessee, & Diana Buechler of Valparaiso, 7 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, her sister, Carol (Marc) Fifield of Valparaiso, and many loving sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews & friends. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Gilbert Stephens
A celebration of Nancy’s life will be held July 15th from noon – 5 pm at the VFW in Valparaiso.
GUESTBOOK
Let her always be in your heart! Such a loving Mother!! -Christine Wenger
So very sad, I'm so very sorry for the loss of your dear Mom, Carrie, Dianna, Liz, Jeff & Kevin. I think her and Grandma Stephen's were two the nicest & gentlest people I knew. Thinking of you all and wishing you well and strength. -Michael Stephens
Oh how precious the gift of being part of her world. I will always treasure my time and memories with her and feel her gentle firm hugs. She loved so well. Every day I am grateful for knowing her kindness, her pride for her grandchildren and her freezer full of treats for the littles in her life. To those of us missing her now know that I feel some of that ache as well. Her love is free from her body. Feel it soar through everything you see and hear. She is with all of us in spirit forever. Love never leaves. -Sheryl Camp
Pocket Mom was without a doubt one of the sweetest people I have ever met. She had the most beautiful garden and made the best strawberry shortcake I’ve ever had in my entire life. I never heard her speak ill of anyone, and she always had a sweet disposition. I think the best way to honor her is simply to be happy. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. May they find peace, and knowing that she is being held in the palm of God’s hand until they meet her again. the best way to honor her is simply to be happy. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. May they find peace, and knowing that she is being held in the palm of gods hand until they meet her again, -Jen Wright
“I can't even begin to share all of the good and happy memories here because they're endless. Your mother was a wonderful lady and devoted mother to you five kids. Growing up next door there was always something to do, and our summers were filled with endless fun and laughter. I saw her love for you. I'm happy to have known her and your Dad, and I hope to always have you five Koch kids in my life. You're the wonderful product of their love. You have my deepest, heartfelt condolences.” -Brent
