Theodore Michael Lorch, known to most as Ted, was released from his earthly body, on November 30, 2021 and is now free to share his boundless wisdom and optimism with those in heaven. Ted was born on December 22, 1942 to Clarence Theodore Lorch and Luella Marie (Pagel) Lorch in Rochester, Minnesota. The oldest of five children, he was preceded in death by his parents and his youngest brother Thomas. He is survived by his wife, Ione, his children and their spouses, Brian and Joyce Lorch, Heidi and Eric Odenius, five grandchildren, Cameron (Ashley) and Brandon Lorch, Estefan, Abraham, and Noah Silva, two great-grandchildren (Kaylee, and Grace), his brother Terry, two sisters, Mary and Penny, and numerous beloved nieces and nephews, and their spouses and children, and many beloved cousins, friends, and neighbors. Ted spent much of his childhood in the Rochester, Minnesota area, where he often helped his grandfather with his farm. After graduating from Rochester John Marshall High School, he moved to St. Paul to pursue further education, graduating from Northwestern School of Electronics where he excelled. Following graduation from trade school, Ted was employed by Northwest Airlines as an Airplane Electrician. He also met and married Ione, and shortly afterward their first child, Brian was born. Not too many years later Heidi followed. In 1974, Ted and Ione were able to pursue his dream of owning a farm, and the family moved to their current home in rural Nerstrand, where the couple raised their young family and enjoyed rural life while Ted continued to work for the airlines. Ted left employment with the airlines, and began farming full-time, constructing a modern hog facility to support his family. Ted's careful management skills helped keep the farm afloat through some very tough and lean years. Ted was also active in the local, county, and state 4-H organizations and the Kenyon FFA chapter. He was a member of Vang Lutheran Church. He was proud of his children and their accomplishments. Ted has always been an optimist, like all of us, he is not perfect, but in general his cheery demeanor could be counted on to follow him wherever he went. Ted did not give up. He found pleasure in sunflowers and tomato plants in the gardens at Three Links Care Center. He cracked jokes about himself, bringing cheer to the staff at Three Links Care Center in Northfield. Ted loved to lend a hand to help a friend, family member, or neighbor, whenever he was asked. He was an accomplished handyman and mechanic, and an excellent farmer. He is certainly happily farming and fixing in heaven, bringing smiles to all those around him. A private graveside service will be held at Little Cannon Cemetery in Holden Township with Pastor Paul Graham officiating.