Herbert O. Morch

Herbert Oscar Morch, age 90, has passed away unexpectedly. He left this world Thursday, August 10th, 2023, with his loving wife Jane and devoted son Michael by his side.Visitation will be from 6:00 - 7:00 pm, Vigil at 7:00 pm, Thursday, August 17, 2023; Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am, Friday August 18, 2023, all at Church of the Resurrection Catholic Church. Graveside Service with Military Honors will follow at 4:00 pm, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Beloit, Kansas.Herbert O. was born on May 12th, 1933 in Postville, Iowa. As the youngest of four siblings to Asjbourn & Senda (Gericke) Morch, Herbert's journey was filled with countless stories and cherished memories.Herb’s athletic and academic achievements in high school earned him a scholarship to the University of Iowa. He graduated with a degree in electrical engineering while lettering in track and field as one of the Hawkeye’s top long distance runners. He remained a loyal Hawkeye fan for the rest of his life. The university’s ROTC Program paved the way for a distinguished military career in the Airforce. Herb found his soulmate, Jane, during his flight training in Wichita, Kansas many years ago. Their love story is one for the ages, as they celebrated an incredible 62 years of marriage.Herb's devotion to Jane was unwavering. He cherished her every day and stood by her side through thick and thin. Together, they raised three wonderful children -- Elizabeth, Brenda, and Michael. Their children blessed Herb & Jane with seven grandchildren -- Brian, Michael, John Paul, Elaina, Luke, Dylan, and Zachary Herbert. Herb dedicated an impressive 21 years of his life as a US Airforce pilot. While maneuvering aircraft like the mighty B47, Herb's journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. His courage, undaunted determination, and superior aerial skills have earned him not only the admiration of his peers but also prestigious accolades. Among them is the Distinguished Flying Cross, which recognizes his exceptional achievements in combat. After retiring from the Airforce he was recruited, by Jane, into financial consulting with New England Financial. Herb & Jane created a powerful partnership that serviced the Wichita community for 40 years where their clients became lifelong friends. His family and friends were special to him. Whether it was teeing off on the golf course, or engaging in friendly competition over a game of bridge, he cherished every moment spent together. Herb enjoyed surprising his guests with magic tricks during dinner parties. A big part of Herb & Jane’s life together was entertaining. But above all, Herb's faith guided him throughout his life. His strong belief in God brought him comfort and strength in times of both triumph and adversity.Herb enthusiastically supported with time, talent and treasure to service organizations including the Knights of Columbus, American Legion, Amicus Club, The Red Cross, and The United Way. He never lost his “work hard, play hard” mentality. Herb's life was a testament to the power of duality. He embodied strength and gentleness in equal measure. His accomplishments were vast, yet he remained remarkably humble. From his courageous days in combat to his unwavering empathy for those in need, Herb showed us how one person can possess both toughness and sensitivity.Herb was preceded in death by his parents; Jane’s parents, Paul and Marie Stover; his siblings, Jeleen Bilden (Millard), Leo Morch (Maxine), Rose Marie Foels (Walter); brothers-in-law, Charles Eck, Don Thummel, Ned Truex, sisters-in-law, Sister Colleen Stover, Sister Elizabeth Stover, Dolores Eck; son-in-law, Charles Thomas; nephew, Stanley Herbert Foels; great-nephews, Justin Thummel and Wesley Sanders; and great-niece, Maegan Sanders; and many good friends. Herb is survived by his wife, Jane; his three children, Elizabeth Welch (Chuck), Brenda Thomas (Joel), Michael Morch (Cynthia); and his seven grandchildren, Brian Welch, Michael Welch, John Paul Thomas, Elaina Garcia, Luke Thomas, Dylan Morch, and Zachary Herbert Thomas; his sister-in-law, Mary Truex. Also survived by 21 nieces and nephews, whom all had a special place in his heart!A memorial has been established with Harbor House for Abused Women and Children c/o Catholic Charities Wichita, 437 N. Topeka St., Wichita, KS 67202.Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary - East Chapel.

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