Mariel Joan Knoch

Knoch, Mariel Joan (née Goltz)

December 21, 1933 – January 7, 2025, age 91 of Apple Valley, passed away peacefully after suffering with dementia for the last few years.

Survived by her son, James (Kym) of Chagrin Falls, Ohio and Venice, Florida; daughters, Julie (Larry) Pierce of Minneapolis, and Jennifer (Tim) Pearson of Minneapolis; 11 grandchildren; and 16 great grandchildren.

Preceded in death by her loving husband of 64 years, Robert H. Knoch; parents, Oscar & Jeanne Goltz; and stepfather, Dee Lloyd.

Mariel was a graduate of St. Paul Central High School in 1952 and attended Macalester College. She worked at 3M as a Comptometer Operator in the Production Industrial Engineering department. In 1955-1956, Mariel joined her husband in Germany. After returning, they settled in Richfield, eventually moving to Burnsville where they raised their family. Mariel was a dedicated sports-mom. She then became a part-time church secretary at St. James Lutheran Church and devoted her time there for 20+ years which she loved immensely.

Following retirement, she and Bob traveled extensively to 35+ countries; her favorite trip was to India.

Faith, family, and friends are what she valued most. She was proud of all her kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids. She was always ready with photos and stories to share of her beloved family.

We want to thank her incredible, devoted around-the-clock care team at The Moments, FirstLight Home Care, and MN Hospice.

Memorial Service at 11am on Sat., March 1, 2025, at St. James Lutheran Church, 3650 Williams Dr., Burnsville, with visitation one hour prior. In honor of Mariel’s favorite color, we encourage you to wear red to the service. Private family burial was held at Acacia Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to St. James Lutheran Church (https://www.stjameslc.org/) or the South St. Paul Educational Foundation (https://www.sspef.com/donate/).