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RICHARD KOCH
FEBRUARY 7TH, 1938-DECEMBER 8TH, 2024
Richard "Dick" Koch beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator and adventurer, passed away peacefully with his son by his side on December 8, 2024. He was 86 years old.
Dick was raised in Edina, Minnesota, where he developed a passion for learning and community service. After graduating from High School, he attended the University of Minnesota, earning degrees in both teaching and psychology. For decades, he dedicated his life to education as a high school psychology teacher at St. Louis Park, where he inspired countless students. His commitment to community extended beyond the classroom as he also served on the city council, advocating for the needs for his neighbors. In addition to his dedication to education and public service, he was a successful real estate investor, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and keen insight.
On September 26, 1960, Dick married the love of his life, Diane (Jamgotch), embarking on a beautiful journey that lasted 65 years. Together, they created a loving home, filled with laughter, learning and adventure. In 1997, they retired to Palm Harbor, Florida, where they embraced the sun and continued their exploration of the world.
Dick was a true adventurer at heart, traveling to over 50 countries and immersing himself in diverse cultures. He cherished every new experience with his wife, and his stories of their adventures will be great memories for his family. An avid antique enthusiast, Dick and Diane owned an antique mall in Minneapolis, where they shared their passion for treasures with others.
In addition to his many interests, Dick found joy in music, playing bridge and weekly dancing with Diane. His big presence and unwavering generosity will always be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Dick is preceded in death by his parents Joyce (Olson) and Donald Koch.
He is survived by his loving wife, Diane (Jamgotch); his daughter Kimberly (Brien Bublitz), his son Kristopher (Kelly) and granddaughter Khloe.
Rest in peace, dear Dick. Your adventurous spirit and loving heart will be deeply missed.
https://obituaries.startribune.com/obituary/richard-koch-1092460470
Bonnie Polski
He was my favorite teacher - professional, sympathetic, motivational. There are not enough word to describe how wonderfulhe was
Mimi Miller (Hodgkins)
Mr. Koch was my favorite teacher. Our class had the honor of being his first students, plus the golden opportunity to learn from one of the most passionate, enthusiastic, knowledgeable, interesting and generous educators! He was also one of the nicest teachers who spoke to us young adults and motivated us to learn.
He sat on the edge of his desk right in front my desk where I looked up and took in every word. Rest in Peace, Mr. Koch and thank you for your kindness to me, an awkward student.
I'm happy he lived such a wonderful, fulfilling life!
🤍 🕊️
Charlie Blekre
I can't say anything more than Bonnie and Mimi. Mr Koch was my favorite teacher as well. You got the feeling when you talked to.him that he really cared.Pamalla Rankin Mielke (Boyce)
I rememer him well, I had him for home room if I recall correctly. Does any one recall what he taught us? Citizenship?
Its interesting to see he was only 6 years older than us.
I worked with his wife Diane Koch at Fred G. Andersons selling wallcovering and some designing. I have no doubt that he is deeply missed.
Robert Hill
Richard Koch was my 11th grade history teacher. It was his first year teaching and he did an excellent job. Others who have posted asked what he taught, so I thought that I should "pitch in." He was a very fine man, and he was only 6 years older than we were. Graduated from Edina high school, (we won't hold that against him), his obituary says that he specialized in psychology. If that was so, he was a man of many talents.