Jean Marie DeKoch, Kaukauna, age 90, passed away on Thursday, January 20, 2016 at Appleton Medical Center, surrounded by the family she so loved. She was born on July 4, 1925 to the late Robert and Marie Heinen. Jean was a graduate of Kaukauna High School.

On September 16, 1950 she married her devoted husband, Jack DeKoch, at St. Mary Parish in Kaukauna. Together, they celebrated 65 years of marriage.

Jean was a member of St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Kaukauna. She was elected Parish President of the Ladies Altar Society of St. Aloysius Parish in the early 1970's, prior to their consolidation with St. Katharine Drexel.

Jean possessed a special talent for interior decorating, which was apparent in her home. She was also a talented seamstress, always paying very particular attention to detail. She wore many of her own designs – and could have had a career in either of these areas, but instead chose to be a homemaker – devoting herself to her family. Jean was very proud of her sons, and they loved her dearly.

Jean loved camping at High Falls Flowage, which was an annual summer event for the DeKoch family. She became an accomplished water skier, however, she barely tolerated fishing!

Jean is survived by her husband, Jack; and her sons: Robert (Debbie) DeKoch, Appleton; Daniel DeKoch, Kaukauna; and Jim DeKoch, Milwaukee.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Marie Heinen; and her brother, Bill Heinen.

She will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held Monday, January 25, 2016 at ST. KATHARINE DREXEL PARISH – ST. MARY CHURCH (119 W. 7th St. Kaukauna) beginning at 9:00 a.m. until time of Mass at 11:00 a.m. The Rev. Jerome Pastors will officiate. Committal St. Mary Cemetery, Kaukauna.  Memorials may be made to Loaves and Fishes.

The DeKoch family extends a special thank you to Dr. Russo and his staff, Sue and Michelle, and to the Appleton Medical Center ICU staff, for their care and concern during Jean's final days.