Margaret G. (Koch) Millin's Obituary
I was born Margaret Gladys Koch on September 27, 1939. I was the fifth child of the sixteen children born to Christine and Andy Koch.
World War II occurred during the first six years of my life. This had little effect on my childhood years. My family lived and farmed on my Grandfather Koch’s homesteaded place in Gaylord, ND. In 1945 we moved to a new farm north of Belfield, ND. At home I was responsible for cutting the bread and organizing the school lunches. I also helped milk the cows and clean the house. Hard work, caring for children and religion were some of the lessons I learned at home.
In 1958 I graduated from Belfield High School. During high school I played the flute in the band and worked at Pete’s Café. Shortly after high school I went west to Tacoma, WA to visit my sister, Lorraine. While I was there, I met my future husband, Eugene Millin.
I was 19 when Gene and I married and moved to Ohio. This marriage was not successful. My children and I moved home to the farm for two years. At this time, I worked at the Belvue Hotel.
My best friend, Yvonne and her mother sponsored me while I attended St. Joseph’s School of nursing. Mrs. Jubert furnished my children and I with a home and paid my tuition. This was a big turning point in my life, and I am forever grateful to the Jubert family. After graduation I worked at St. Joseph’s Hospital and continued to live in Dickenson, ND.
My sister Lorraine invited my family and I to come to Tacoma and live with her while her husband was in Vietnam. In 1967 I began working as a LPN at American Lake Medical Center. I remained there for 31 years. A big moment arrived also on 1967, I bought the home in which I raised my children and reside there today. I also had a proud moment when I bought my fist brand new car, I paid in cash and then drove it off the lot.
As a single parent I raised my four children, Ron, Jeff. Jackie and Michel. All four children have remained in Tacoma and we live in close proximity. We enjoy man boisterous family gatherings. For many years I had a special relationship with my friend, Gil Whitely.
In retirement I enjoy playing bunco, pinochle, bingo and cribbage. I belong to the Red Hat Society, Collins Grange and St Anne’s Catholic Church.
I have traveled the world over with my sister Loraine, my brother Andy and my sisters-in-law, Carole and Louise.
I am very grateful for my family, my children, my parents and all my siblings. My life has been full, productive, challenging and filled with good memories.
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