Herb Koch
2012 Hall of Fame Inductee
Loretto, MN
Loretto, MN
Herb Koch's dedication to baseball and his community is a testament to the enduring spirit of amateur sports. A Delano High School alumnus, Herb's passion for baseball ignited early. At just sixteen, he began playing amateur baseball, and by nineteen, he had taken on the role of manager, a position he continues to hold with the Loretto Larks.
Herb’s commitment extends beyond the dugout. He served as the North Star League secretary for fourteen years and currently presides as its president, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the organization and the sport.
But Herb Koch is more than just a baseball manager. He is a pillar of the Loretto community. For over thirty years, he served on the local athletic club board, tirelessly working to enhance the town's recreational facilities. His vision and labor transformed Loretto's ballpark, adding new lighting and, constructing a little league baseball field and three softball fields adjacent to the ballpark. This athletic complex, a rarity for a town of just 650 residents, stands as a testament to his dedication. Herb’s hands-on approach included preparing the field and concession stand, ensuring every aspect of the facility was ready for play.
Herb's commitment to Loretto doesn't stop at the baseball diamond. He also played a vital role in building the Loretto Fire Station and served as the town's Fire Chief for thirty years, showcasing his deep commitment to the safety and well-being of his neighbors.
In 2009, Herb Koch's exceptional contributions to amateur baseball were recognized with the prestigious Mike Downs Award, a fitting tribute to his decades of service and unwavering passion.
Herb Koch's life is a story of dedication, leadership, and community spirit. He has not only shaped the landscape of Loretto baseball but has also enriched the lives of countless individuals through his tireless efforts.
Herb’s commitment extends beyond the dugout. He served as the North Star League secretary for fourteen years and currently presides as its president, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the organization and the sport.
But Herb Koch is more than just a baseball manager. He is a pillar of the Loretto community. For over thirty years, he served on the local athletic club board, tirelessly working to enhance the town's recreational facilities. His vision and labor transformed Loretto's ballpark, adding new lighting and, constructing a little league baseball field and three softball fields adjacent to the ballpark. This athletic complex, a rarity for a town of just 650 residents, stands as a testament to his dedication. Herb’s hands-on approach included preparing the field and concession stand, ensuring every aspect of the facility was ready for play.
Herb's commitment to Loretto doesn't stop at the baseball diamond. He also played a vital role in building the Loretto Fire Station and served as the town's Fire Chief for thirty years, showcasing his deep commitment to the safety and well-being of his neighbors.
In 2009, Herb Koch's exceptional contributions to amateur baseball were recognized with the prestigious Mike Downs Award, a fitting tribute to his decades of service and unwavering passion.
Herb Koch's life is a story of dedication, leadership, and community spirit. He has not only shaped the landscape of Loretto baseball but has also enriched the lives of countless individuals through his tireless efforts.