John G. Goche: A Life Well-Lived
The North Iowa community is mourning the loss of a beloved member, John G. Goche, who passed away on January 17, 2025, at the age of 90. A funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Divine Mercy Parish St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Bancroft, followed by burial at the church cemetery. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, January 21st, at Oakcrest Funeral Services of Bancroft.
A Life of Love and Legacy
John Goche was born on September 25, 1934, on the family farm east of Bancroft to Leo and Erma Goche. He was a proud graduate of St. John’s Catholic High School in 1953. John met the love of his life, Frances Kodet, at an old-time dance in Fairmont, MN, and the two were married on November 14, 1958. Together, they raised three daughters and farmed in the Bancroft area.
Throughout his life, John embodied the spirit of an Iowa farmer, with a deep love for livestock, farm animals, and the land. He witnessed the evolution of farming from horse-drawn plows to computerized machinery and was proud to have his family farm recognized as a centennial farm in 1999.
A Man of Many Passions
In addition to his dedication to farming, John had a love for old-time music, especially concertinas. He and Frances enjoyed traveling to music events and exploring new places together. John also had a passion for woodworking, fishing, and gardening. He was actively involved in his community, serving on the Lakota School Board for over a decade and being a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Bancroft.
Remembering John Goche
John Goche leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication to his family and community. He is survived by his three daughters, Laurie, Sandra, and Becky, as well as his sister Lucille Hellman and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, siblings, and parents-in-law.
As the North Iowa community gathers to celebrate the life of John Goche, his memory will live on through the stories shared by those who knew and loved him. His impact on the farming community and beyond will forever be remembered with fondness and gratitude. May his legacy inspire future generations to embrace hard work, passion, and a love for life’s simple pleasures.
