Janice Koch

Janice Koch age 85 of Fredericksburg, IA died Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Shell Rock Healthcare Center.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, December 2, 2024, at Peace United Church of Christ in Fredericksburg with Rev. Scott Smith officiating. Interment will be held at Faith United Church of Christ Cemetery, Tripoli.

Friends may greet the family an hour prior to the service at the church on Monday.

Janice Joanne Koch, known affectionately as Janice to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2024, at the age of 85 in Shell Rock, Iowa. Born on April 29, 1939, in Tripoli, Iowa, the daughter of Edward and Lilly (Tonne) Koch. Janice was a beacon of kindness and generosity throughout her life, touching the hearts of all who knew her.

After graduating from Tripoli High School in 1958, Janice embarked on a fulfilling career at Meinerz Creamery in Fredericksburg. She dedicated 28 years of service to the company, becoming a valued and respected member of the team. Janice’s work ethic and commitment to her role were evident to all who worked alongside her.

Janice’s passion for the fiber arts was unparalleled. She had an extraordinary talent for crocheting, embroidery, knitting, and quilting. Her creations were not just a hobby but a means of expression that brought warmth and beauty into the lives of others. Janice found joy in sharing her skills, often gifting her handcrafted treasures to neighbors, friends, and children in the Fredericksburg area. Her selfless nature ensured that her gifts were not just items of comfort but also of love.

Those who knew Janice would describe her as the epitome of selflessness and generosity. She lived her life with an open heart, always putting the needs of others before her own. Janice’s legacy is one of compassion and giving, and her impact on the community is immeasurable.

Janice’s presence will be profoundly missed by the many lives she touched. Her memory will live on through her beautiful works and the countless stories of her kindness that will continue to be shared. Janice Joanne Koch was a remarkable woman who exemplified the best of humanity, and her spirit will forever be cherished.

Janice is survived by a special friend, Barton Phillips of Decorah, IA; one sister, Marlys Popes of Clarksville, IA;  three nephews, Mark Popes of Plainfield, IA, Dean Popes of Clarksville, IA, Karl Tessmer of Tripoli, IA; two nieces, Sande (Al) Fehring of Shell Rock, IA, and Ann (Jon) Hillard of Dike, IA. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Bernice (Everett) Tessmer