Lara Marple

(From Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home)

Lara Ann Marple (Koča), a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend, passed away on July 11, 2024, in Springfield, MO, the same hospital where she was born. She was 41 years old.

Lara was born on January 11, 1983, in Springfield, MO, to Ed and Kathy Jo Koča. She grew up in Greenfield, MO, surrounded by the love of her family and the close-knit community. Lara was predeceased by her father Ed Koča, her paternal grandparents Francis and Clara Koča, and her maternal grandparents Martin and Mary Ann Hathcock. She is survived by her mother Kathy Jo Koča, her brother Adam Koča, his wife Sarah, and her many extended family members.

Lara's adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors were evident early in her life. She attended Ozark Christian College in Joplin, MO, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Biblical Literature. Her passion for caving and spelunking began in college and continued throughout her life. Lara dedicated her time to working as a camp counselor at various Girl Scout camps in Missouri, Minnesota, and Tennessee, and later in outdoor education camps across California, Texas, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

It was in Wisconsin where she met the love of her life, Craig Marple. They married on September 20, 2014, and together, they built a beautiful life in Ozark, MO. Lara and Craig adopted their precious daughter, Chloe, who is now five years old. Lara's nurturing spirit and love for children led her to work at a daycare, where she continued to make a positive impact on young lives.

Lara had many passions and hobbies that she enjoyed sharing with others. She loved reading, crocheting hats, and teaching astrology at outdoor education camps. She was deeply involved in church ministry, the Girl Scouts, and the Dade County Community Theatre. As a child, Lara collected smiley faces, a testament to her cheerful disposition and positive outlook on life. Her favorite color was "all of them," reflecting her vibrant personality and zest for life.

Lara's motto was always "stay positive," a phrase she lived by every day. She was known for her cheerful attitude, corny jokes, and the ever-present smile on her face. Her ability to brighten any room with her warmth and kindness will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Lara is also survived by her mother-in-law, Darlene Marple, sister-in-law Cathy Marple, and brother-in-law Gary Marple. She is predeceased by her father-in-law, Steven Marple. Lara’s cherished nieces and nephews include Ethan Koca, Arwen Koca, Eva Koca, Jaxson Janes, Sophie Janes, and Killian Janes. Hope and Dan are also a part of her extended family and friends who will remember her as a wonderful person who brought joy and love to everyone she met.

A celebration of Lara's life will be held on July 16 at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home in El Dorado Springs, MO. Visitation will be at 10 am, the service at 11 am, with graveside services following at Virgil City Cemetery in Virgil City, MO. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to GYN Cancers Alliance (GYNCA), an organization that provides education, resources, and support to local women and caregivers affected by gynecologic cancers. GYNCA was a tremendous help to Lara throughout her journey.


Lara Ann Marple, a beacon of positivity and love, will forever remain in our hearts. Remember to always "stay positive."