PIERRE, SD – Marilyn Marie Koch, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2024, at the age of 88. A visitation will be held from 5:00-6:00 on Thursday, October 24th with a 6:00 prayer service at Isburg Funeral Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 on Friday, October 25th at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic in Pierre with burial to follow at Riverside Cemetery.Born on July 8, 1936, in Kimball, Marilyn was a lifelong resident of South Dakota. She was the cherished daughter of Harold and Mae (Deal) Hicks, along two sisters and six brothers.

Marilyn grew up in Kimball and Pierre where she later graduated from Pierre T.F. Riggs High School.

On July 24, 1954, she married the love of her life, Anthony “Tony” Koch. They were blessed with five children: Michael, Linda, Brian, John and Lisa. Several foster children were also part of the young family in the early years.

Marilyn’s first career was caring full-time for her children. Later working outside the home, Marilyn’s work ethic and warm demeanor shone brightly. She was a dedicated employee at JC Penney’s Clothing, the Capital Journal newspaper, and the South Dakota Veterinary Medical Exam Board.

Marilyn’s commitment to her community was evident through her involvement with various organizations. She was an active member of the Pierre Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary, the Catholic Daughters, and the Telephone Pioneers. Her voice made the news accessible to all as a reader for the State Library, where she volunteered her time.

Family gatherings always included playing cards. Marilyn looked forward to her weekly lunch and cards with dear, cherished friends. She and Tony also enjoyed cruising to Hawaii and Panama along with many road trips across the country.

Marilyn is survived by her children Linda (Neil) Harris, John (Dawn) Koch, and Lisa (Randy) Wright; brothers Clifford (friend Barb), Ralph, Robert (friend Theoda), Roger (Sally), and Leonard; sister-in-law Sallie (Ken) Hicks; brothers-in-law John Schroeder and Ken Cross; grandchildren, Mark (Jessica) Koch, Ryan Koch, Brad Koch, Alexandra (Jared) Little and Brooklyn (Chaz) Williams; great grandchildren Spencer and Savannah Koch, Aubree and McCoy Williams.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband Anthony (Tony); sons Michael and Brian; daughter-in-law Peggy Koch; parents Harold and Mae Hicks; her sisters and their husbands Norma and Dean Butterfield, Betty and Lyle Carman, brother Kenneth Hicks; sisters-in-law Thelma Hicks, Pricilla Hicks, Penny Hicks, Carolyn Hicks, Martha Hicks, Ila Schroeder, Mary Ann Cross; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Hubert and Alice Koch, Carl and Jeanette Koch, Doris and Everett Cumbee.

She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a friend to many. Marilyn’s memory will be cherished and her presence deeply missed, but the light she brought into this world will continue to shine in the hearts of those she touched.

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