Leona Koch

Leona Mae Baumgartner Koch, age 88, of Morrilton, passed away Tuesday, February 14, 2017. Leona was born April 10, 1928 in Scranton, Arkansas, raised by devoted parents, whom she adored Ben Baumgartner and Tina Engel Baumgartner. She learned lifelong values of Christ like living for others, hard work and unwavering ties for family. After graduation from Scranton High School she married Bernard in 1949, and coming to Morrilton in 1950 with no personal connections, they were easily accepted into the local and Sacred Heart communities and together built Koch's Body Shop which opened in 1964, where Leona served as owner and office manager for over 50 years. She fervently attended daily and Sunday Masses and Adoration. She was the widow of Bernard Koch after 55 years of marriage. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Morrilton Adelaide Club, and Sacred Heart Alter Society, along with enjoying cooking, sewing, decorating projects. She lived her life with unconditional love and devotion to her children and grandchildren, putting the needs of others above her own needs. She is survived by her children, Karen (Bill) Graham of Van Buren, Gary Koch of Morrilton, Greg (Cindy) Koch of Morrilton, Stan Koch of Morrilton, Cindy (Chuck) Davidson of Conway, and Kim (John) Glassford of Little Rock; seven grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended friends and family. Other than her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her son, Glen Koch, daughter, Yvonne Koch, brother, George Tencleve, and sister, Ruth Peterson. Funeral Mass will be 10 a.m. Saturday, February 18, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Jack Harris officiating. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Rosary will be 6:30 p.m. Friday, at the funeral home with visitation following. Memorials can be made to Sacred Heart Capitol Campaign. Online guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.