Myrna K. (Koch) Dentino

Myrna K. Dentino, 80, of Metamora, IL, passed away on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at 9:49 am at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria, IL.

She was born August 3, 1945, at Lasance Hospital in Washington, IL to Walter P. and Kathryn M. (Stang) Koch.  Myrna married Kenneth R. McKnight (deceased) in August 1963 and had three beautiful children. She later married the long-time love of her life, William J. Dentino (deceased) in January 2001.

Myrna is survived by her daughters, Sandra Woods of Metamora, IL and Michelle (Sara) Carr of Decatur, IL, as well as her sister, Marilyn "Marty" (Larry) Mullins of Metamora, IL and one sister-in law, Nancy (Duane) Koch of Cazenovia, IL, along with several nieces and nephews who were very dear to her.  She was preceded in death by her son, Michael R. McKnight, her parents, her husbands, two brothers, Duane E. Koch and one unnamed, and her sisters, Leontine Nauman, Jean A. Miller, and Barbara A. Stalter.

Myrna attended St. Mary's Grade School, Metamora Township High School and ICC.  She was a dancer, cheerleader, and did TV commercials in the late 60's to early 70's.  She also bartended, waitressed, cleaned houses, was a maintenance supervisor, and worked in the Mailroom and Accounting Departments at Caterpillar, Inc.

Myrna loved reminiscing about the good old days.  She also loved taking long rides and singing to the oldies, country music and Andrea Bocelli. Myrna was beautiful, loving, generous, funny and smart – The first college graduate of our family.  She was also strong, passionate, and sassy.  She loved to laugh and derived great joy from spending time with family and friends playing cards, dominoes, various board games and crossword puzzles. She really enjoyed good conversations, good food and coffee with everyone as well.   She was a great cook and baker and would share with everyone she could. She loved her rescue dogs with all her heart and would spend her last dime taking care of them.

She was a member of St. Mary's Parish in Metamora where a private family funeral mass will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025 at 11:00 am, with Father David M. Kipfer officiating. No visitation will be held. Cremation rites have been accorded. Inurnment of ashes will be in St. Mary's Cemetery in Metamora, IL.

The family would like to thank the many friends and family members who provided assistance with transportation to the many appointments and to also thank the wonderful staff at OSF Richard L Owens Hospice Home, who provided a stellar level of care in her last days.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home, 8630 N. IL Route 91, Peoria, IL 61615, St. Mary's Church, 415 West Chatham Street, Metamora, IL 61548, St. Mary's School, 400 West Chatham Street, Metamora, IL 61548, Open Arms Food Pantry, 1200 West Mt. Vernon Street, Metamora, IL 61548 or TAPS, 100 Taps Lane,  Pekin, IL 61554.  Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home
8630 State Route 91, Peoria IL 61615

St. Mary's Church
415 West Chatham Street, Metamora IL 61548

St. Mary's School
400 West Chatham Street, Metamora IL 61548

Open Arms Food Pantry
1200 West Mount Vernon Street, Metamora IL 61548

Tazewell Animal Protective Society (TAPS)
100 Taps Lane, Pekin IL 61554