Verlene Marie Ochs, age 87, of Grainfield, KS, passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2020, at Gove County Medical Center Long Term Care facility. She was born June 15, 1933, to George Harold and Odella (Marcotte) Deges. She attended the country school in Grainfield.
Verlene was united in marriage to Roy Ochs Jr. on August 31, 1954, at Saint Agnes Catholic Church. They were happily married until his passing in September of 2014. She lived a life full of service and giving as a member of the Saint Agnes Catholic Ladies, American Legion Auxiliary, and Gove County Medical Center Auxiliary. Verlene enjoyed baking, cooking, gardening, canning, and embroidering, having made numerous sets of tea towels for family, friends, and all those in the community. Her door was always open to anyone who came by, and there was always an open spot at her table. Verlene will be dearly missed by family and friends, and will continue to live on in their hearts.
Verlene is survived by her son Ron (Lesa) Ochs of Quinter, KS; daughters Dee (Jack) Foster of Grainfield, Dar (Tim) Hickert of Hays, KS, and Connie (Gary) Rupp of Tribune, KS; grandchildren Amy (Cory) Leiker, Angie Foster, Justin (Shannon) Foster, Dustin (Robynn) Hickert, Kara (Nic) Top, Ryan (Tiff) Ochs, Shawna Ochs, Emily Rupp, and Audrey Rupp; 12 great-grandchildren; and brothers Elmer Deges, Leon Deges, and Eugene Deges.
Verlene is preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband; and brothers Bernard Deges, Eldon Deges, and Richard Deges.
Due to concerns involving COVID-19, a private family service will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2020, with interment to follow at the Grainfield Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Grainfield American Legion Auxiliary and Gove County Medical Center Long Term Care facility. Donations to the organizations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 S. Main St. Quinter, KS 67752.
Condolences may be left for the family by visiting schmittfuneral.com