Linda L. Ridenour, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and dedicated educator, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026.
Linda was born on June 17, 1949, in Campbell, to Wallace and Betty Koch and baptized at the Presbyterian Church of Campbell. She married the love of her life, Ross Ridenour, on Dec. 23, 1972, in her hometown of Campbell. Together, they built a beautiful life over nearly 54 years of marriage, raising two daughters: Darcee Miller (partner Todd Manley) of North Platte, and Marissa LaRochelle (husband Matt) of Redondo Beach, California. Linda's devotion to her family was further expressed through her cherished role as a grandmother to Dillon Miller (fiancé Kate Stienike) and Payton Miller of Brady, a sister to Dennis Koch of Minden, and as a dog mom to Gizmo.
A lifelong learner, Linda graduated from Kearney State College with a degree in Business Education and later earned a master's degree from Oklahoma State University. Her passion for education led her to a fulfilling 35-year career in teaching. She taught at David City Aquinas, Exeter, Vail, Colorado, and Broken Bow. Linda's dedication to her students and her profession was recognized through numerous accolades, including being named Teacher of the Year at Battle Mountain High School and Teacher of the Month by KOLN-KGIN. She was a committed FBLA advisor, inspiring countless young minds to pursue their potential. She previously also held the position of church treasurer of the United Methodist Church in Brady.
Linda is preceded in death by her parents, Wallace and Betty; in-laws, Charles and Thelma Ridenour; and brothers-in-law, Tom Ridenour and Kevin Carfield.
Memorial services were held on Thursday, Sept. 17, at the United Methodist Church in Broken Bow. The family will be designating a charity at a later date for any donations. Govier Brothers Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. An online register book may be signed at www.govierbrothers.com.