Heidi Lynda Hoch

Heidi Lynda Hoch, 72, of Castile, NY passed away on December 26, 2023, at Mercy Hospital, Buffalo, NY, following a brief illness. Heidi was born September 18, 1951, in Warsaw, NY to the late Emil and Eleanor Hoch. She is survived by her sister, Holli (John) Hamner of Greenville South Carolina, niece Sarah, nephew Joel (Christina), great-nephews, Ashton, Hunter, Levi, and Griffin, and great-niece Eleanor. She is predeceased by nephew, Joshua.

            A 1969 graduate of Williamsville North High School, Heidi studied in Bergen, Norway as a Rotary Club exchange student. Never meeting a stranger, “Heidi Ho” found herself teaching Norwegian to Duke Ellington and his band on their tour bus in Norway. He dedicated a song to her at his next concert in Buffalo.

Heidi was an adventurer and a life-long learner. A harpist, she received a B.S. from Shenandoah Conservatory of Music in 1974. She was a beloved music educator, a successful realtor, and worked for the Small Business Administration in Washington, DC. As a government contractor, she supervised installation of international crossing stations across the northern border of the US. Her creative interests included catering, researching antiques, and writing.

            When her parents became ill, Heidi returned to Wyoming County to become their full-time caretaker. For more than a decade she and her treasured dog, Penny, cared for her parents and then a beloved aunt and uncle. Her dedication to and love for each elder extended the length and quality of their lives. She collected details of family history, and her storytelling connected generations.

            Heidi was devoted to her family and friends. She will be remembered for her generous, outgoing nature and her great love. Before meeting her Savior, Jesus, she reassured us that her soul was at peace.

            The family thanks the ICU staffs at Wyoming County Community Hospital and Mercy Hospital, Buffalo, NY for their exceptional care.