Mark Koch

Mark Edward Koch 1970 - 2025

Mark Edward Koch was born on November 24, 1970, at Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana to Randy and Sandy Koch. He was welcomed into the family by his older brother, Steve, and spent his early years following his father's military career. Randy, a proud member of the United States Air Force, met Sandy while stationed at RAF Lakenheath in England. The family moved frequently before ultimately settling in Great Falls, Montana, a place that would forever hold a special place in Mark’s heart.

As a teenager, Mark moved to Great Falls just before beginning high school and attended Charles M. Russell High School, graduating with the Class of 1989. During those years, he met Roy Kennedy, who would become much more than a best friend, he became the brother Mark chose. United by their love of 1980s hair metal music, unwavering devotion to the Dallas Cowboys, and countless shared adventures, the two were inseparable throughout their lives. Their bond was built on loyalty, lots of laughter, and friendship that endured through every season of life. Together, they worked at Air Host at Great Falls International Airport, where Mark discovered a passion for aviation that would shape the rest of his professional life.

Following graduation, Mark began his career with Delta Air Lines. Around this time, he also became a father to his beloved son, Steven Michael Koch. Mark’s love for Steven was immeasurable, and being his dad was the role he cherished most. He took immense pride in the man Steven became and valued the close bond they shared. His love, support, and devotion as a father were evident throughout his life.

Mark went on to build an accomplished career in the airline industry with SkyWest Airlines, where he dedicated more than twenty years of service. Through hard work, leadership, and commitment, he advanced from Customer Service Agent to Supervisor and ultimately to Station Manager for both Great Falls and Helena, Montana.

Mark’s life became even richer when he met the love of his life, Ashley, while working at the Great Falls airport. What began as a strong friendship grew into a deep and enduring love. Together they shared countless adventures, traveled extensively, and built a life grounded in friendship, laughter, and unwavering love. In 2008, they were married on the beautiful beach at Makena Cove in Maui, beginning a blessed chapter filled with so much love, shared dreams and spending the rest of their lives together.

In 2023, Mark retired from the airline industry and moved to Queen Creek, Arizona, with Ashley and their beloved German Shepherd, Sawyer. He embraced the Arizona sunshine and enjoyed a well-earned "semi-retired life", spending time by the pool, working on his tan, and making treasured memories in this new chapter.

On October 16, 2025, Mark passed away unexpectedly in his sleep. Though his passing came far too soon, the impact he made on the lives of those around him will endure forever. Mark leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, lots of laughter, and kindness.

Mark will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His generous spirit, infectious energy, and remarkable ability to make others feel valued will never be forgotten.

We are forever blessed to have Mark in our lives!