March 25th, 2021

My little sister, Colleen Marie Koch died on March 25 at the age of 52 in Royal Columbian Hospital where she was being treated for Calciphylaxis since October 2020. Colleen had been waiting for a kidney donor since 2016. Colleen is predeceased by her parents Peggy (d. 2006) and David Koch (d. 2013), and is survived by me, Dana Koch (Reg Maidment).

Coll was born in Trail, BC in 1969 and we relocated to Kamloops BC before she was a year old. She attended North Kamloops Elementary, MacArthur Park, and graduated in 1987 from Norkam. Colleen earned her degree in psychology/criminology from Simon Fraser University in 1992.

Her career as a public servant started as a welfare case worker before she moved to the Public Guardian and Trustee where she worked for more than 20 years. As a manager for the PGT, Colleen was much loved and respected for her leadership, fairness, and the fun she brought to her workplace.

Could our girl laugh?!? She could only get part way through a joke before making herself laugh to tears. Colleen had a huge, boisterous personality that was truly magnetic and magical. She was a joy to be around and her infectious laugh could not be resisted. She was quick to let you know she’d been wronged, and even faster to forgive. Coll knew just how to push your buttons but never too far. Her friends are too numerous to count and all are as devoted to her as she was to each of them. We were all bees swarming around our queen.

Colleen’s outlook was always sunny and positive. This was challenged greatly over the last 5 years as she struggled with kidney disease and failing health. Her determination to come through each setback was a marvel to family, friends, and her healthcare team. Even when faced with her final crisis, she steadfastly declared she would beat the odds, recover, and go back to the life she loved. Her final gift to us was a glorious week where she spoke at length to me and friends —  sharing dreams, stories, and love.

Although Coll lived in the Lower Mainland, Kamloops was always home. She always longed to return home and spent most of her vacations there with family and friends.

She was a trusted confidant, provider of wisdom, cherished friend, and precious sister.

Because Colleen was loved by so many, we will be waiting until we can all meet to joyfully remember her greatness.

Love you, Babes. Oh, my heart, I miss you so.

You may offer condolences at Alternatives Funeral & Cremation.

• Date : 2021-03-25
• Location : Kamloops