John Edward Koch, 69, peacefully passed away from his long struggling battle with Parkinson’s on Saturday, August 23, 2014 at his new home in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin.
John Koch was born on January 9, 1945 in Frederic, Wisconsin to his parents Irving G. and Hulda (Karlson) Koch. John had a very fulfilling life, he grew up in Burnett, Wisconsin and was a 1963 Horicon High School graduate. From there he served two years in the United States Marine Corp, he then proudly served another 22 years in the United States Air Force. During his tour of duty he was fortunate enough to be in places like Japan, Portugal, Greece, Egypt, Switzerland, Germany, Alaska, Jamaica, and Guam. He was most proud of his six year service with the White House Communications Agency for President Regan and President Carter. John retired from the agency in 1987 and moved to Tucson, Arizona where he took on civilian employment for 15 more years working for Central Alarm. In Tucson, Arizona, John was heavily involved with the American Legion Post 36 of Tucson, Arizona. He moved to Goodyear, Arizona in 2010 for advanced treatment at the Muhammad Ali Parkinson’s Center. With a final wish to be home, John made his final journey to Beaver Dam, Wisconsin on August 15, 2014 to be with his brothers and sister. He will be remembered in our hearts for his infectious smile, his amazing love and pride for family, and his devotion to God, his country, and the Green Bay Packers.
John is survived by his wife of 45 years Dorothy Koch; his daughters: Rebecca (Mark) Gospodarek, Josie Jones, and Bonnie (Kevin) Dusek; his grandchildren: Brittney Gospodarek, Colter Glogner-Gospodarek, Brandie Gospodarek, Desiree Jones and Garret Gospodarek; his siblings: Irving (Lois) Koch of Burnett, Norma (Joey) Neuman of Beaver Dam, and Donald (Dianne) Koch of Waupun. John is also survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
A memorial service for John will be held Wednesday, August 27, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 1016 Church St., Waupun, with Rev. Christopher Doerr officiating. A visitation will take place at the church on Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. Military Honors for John will be conducted by the American Legion # 210 Waupun, Wisconsin.
The family sends a special thank you to AGrace Hospice for their caring hearts in John’s final week.
The family requests donations be made to The American Parkinson’s Disease Association (APDA) in John’s name in lieu of flowers.
Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home and Cremation Services, N7199 N. Crystal Lake Rd. in Beaver Dam is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.koepsellfh.com
