Kelly Ann Koch

obit template2018-11-29T12:10:12+00:00

Kelly Ann
Koch

  • Memorial Visitation
    • Saturday, May 30th at Hales Corners Lutheran Church (12300 W. Janesville Rd.) from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Funeral Service
    • Saturday, May 30th at Hales Corners Lutheran Church (12300 W. Janesville Rd.) starting at 12:00 p.m.

Kelly Ann Koch

It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Kelly Ann Koch, a woman of deep faith and a heart overflowing with love. Kelly was born on July 2, 1985, and the Lord called her home on April 22, 2026, at the age of 40.

Kelly faced brain cancer with remarkable courage beginning in December 2020. She fought with everything she had—beating it once and determined to beat it again. Though her path ultimately led another way, she walked it with grace, strength, and unwavering trust in God.

Kelly had a profound love for life, for her family and friends, and for the Lord. She encouraged others to “give faith a try” if they didn’t yet know Him, and she continued to speak about God’s love even when her voice grew faint. She reminded those around her that God has a plan and purpose for every person, and that we all deserve a little grace. One of her favorite quotes, passed down from her Papa, Norman Sobczak, was: “A strong wind makes a strong tree. Never give up. Never give up on yourself, family, or God.”

A proud Green Bay Packers fan, Kelly never missed a chance to cheer on her team. She loved fantasy football and took great pride in “kicking some booty,” even while undergoing treatment. She also had a well-known fondness for chocolate—especially Dove chocolates—along with high heels, dresses, dad jokes, and puns.

Kelly spread love wherever she went. She had a gift for lifting others up and spent many years volunteering with Yacht Blast for Kids, helping bring joy and smiles to countless families. Her wit, warmth, and fun-loving spirit made her a joy to be around.

Kelly is survived by her parents, Don and Jeannie; her brother and sister-in-law, Danny and Julie; her nieces, Chloe and Hannah; her sister, Karen; and her nephews, Jordan and Matthew. She is also lovingly remembered by many extended family members and dear friends.

Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Froedtert and Zilber Hospice for their love, compassion and support throughout Kelly’s journey, as well as to the many friends and loved ones who provided rides, encouragement, and companionship during her countless appointments.

Kelly loved to make people smile. She often said that if you see something that makes you smile—a rainbow, a butterfly—she is probably there. To honor Kelly’s memory, she would want you to treat others with kindness, smile a little more, and cheer on the Packers. Go Pack Go!

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Strain for the Brain to support the search for a cure for brain cancer.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 30th at Hales Corners Lutheran Church (12300 W. Janesville Rd.). Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with a service to follow at 12:00 p.m. After the service, all are invited to continue celebrating Kelly at a luncheon, sharing stories, photos, and memories—including Kelly’s speech from the Chasing Chad Gala—as we honor her love, laughter, and friendship.

9 Comments

  1. Kristi Gorecki April 24, 2026 at 12:25 pm - Reply

    I love you, girlfriend. What a blessing it has been to know you and be a part of your journey. Your parents have raised an angel. While I sit here and grieve, I know that you are watching over all of us from a better place, free of pain and everything that has gone along with it. You are the brightest light and thousands of people are missing you. I will keep you close to my heart and do my best to live the way that you have and truly listen to the things you have taught me.

    My heart is with your parents and family and all who love you. Fly high, Kel. Love you always.

  2. Jesse and Dorothee Chen, Ingrid and Doug Cook April 24, 2026 at 12:32 pm - Reply

    Kelly was always so kind to everyone. God blessed her with a very infectious personality and a beautiful smile, that would light up her face and make you feel blessed to know her. She was a special blessing to my father, Siegfried Goerke. When we had a party for his 95th Birthday, many relatives were there. When we asked if anyone had something to share about him, only Kelly spoke up. She saw the good in each person she met. Truly, this world is colder without her love, joy, kindness, and compassion. Our family will greatly miss her, but we are looking forward to spending eternity with her in heaven.

  3. Omar April 24, 2026 at 1:15 pm - Reply

    Rest easy, Kelly. God speed. I know you’re reunited with your grandparents now—an angel watching over all of us, forever in our hearts.

  4. Emily April 24, 2026 at 1:40 pm - Reply

    I love you, Kelly.
    What a privilege to know you and to be a part of your journey home.
    Thank you for letting me hold your hand and cry and laugh.
    See you later, my friend ❤️

  5. Mary Tully April 24, 2026 at 1:48 pm - Reply

    Kelly you will be forever missed . You have touched so many lives . I’m so grateful to have been able to meet you.
    I’m sending prayers and thoughts to family and friends.

  6. Laura April 24, 2026 at 8:25 pm - Reply

    We spent a lot of time over at the Koch household during our younger years with tons of laughter. The one thing I remember the most is waiting to see what the next prank would be…never a dull moment. Kelly, you brought lots of joy and kindness to the world that will always be remembered.

  7. Glenn Kennedy May 20, 2026 at 4:41 pm - Reply

    My sincerest condolences to the family and friends of truly an amazing giving person we all loved as Kelly. As in the Kelly fashion, she was always the first to step up to volunteer to help others.in need. I worked with her on Yacht Blast for Kids for Make A Wish, where Kelly made a difference in the lives of so many children. She was a special person that I believe God worked through to help others. I will miss her special smile and the kindness she showed all of us. I cherish the memories of her with the Wish children. God bless her.

  8. Jerry and Lynn Garski May 30, 2026 at 9:24 am - Reply

    Our sincere condolences to the family. Kelly Ann was a brave and beautiful person who will always be remembered. While we are not able to travel to today’s service, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Kelly was a dear friend to our daughter and we had the pleasure of meeting her a few times. She left a mark on the world. God Bless the family and friends of Kelly.

  9. ChantaL Heather Tatro May 31, 2026 at 3:00 pm - Reply

    My thoughts and prayers are with the family. She helped me alot when we were together at spencer lake Christian center. She was a doll hanging out with her during her time at Oak Creek Assembly of God Church. Her laughter was contagious. She will always be in my heart and soul.

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