Former Melcher-Dallas firefighter Michael Hoch was honored June 9 by having his name added to the Iowa Firefighter’s Memorial Wall in Coralville. Hoch, who passed away in April 2018, served on the Melcher-Dallas fire department for 52 years.
When Hoch’s daughter Shantell Cottington discovered the application to add a loved one to the wall, she instantly knew her father was a good fit. After submitting the application, Cottington received a letter in May notifying her that her father’s name was going to be added to the Memorial Wall.
This year marked the 25th annual Iowa Firefighter’s Memorial Service. Family members and friends of deceased firefighters were invited to attend. The ceremony included the playing of bagpipes and the presentation of fire gear as colors. Family members were given the opportunity to place wreaths by the names of loved ones on the wall. During the service, a bell was rung for each name added this year.