Kenneth Koch

He was born to John and Dorothy Cassick Koch in Hamburg, NY. Ken worked at Republic Steel, Erie Lackawanna Railroad, Lafayette Well Drilling Services and worked as a mechanic throughout his life.

The world has lost a fine man, a loving husband, a wonderful father, an awesome Grandpa, Great Grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend. He had a pure heart, always welcomed everyone with a smile and warm hospitality. You never had an empty cup when you were with him! He never had an unkind word for anyone and always helped everyone. In any situation he believed that “the ONLY thing that matters is that we love one another”.

Ken was never happier than when at home surrounded by family, especially the love of his life, the peanut butter to his jelly, partner in crime, Margaret Schulz Koch. Ken and Margaret each found “their person” and, after a whirlwind 3-month courtship, they tied the knot in April 1969 and enjoyed 54 happy years together. He loved riding his Harley, cooking his famous spaghetti and meatballs or split pea soup for a crowd, listening to country music, watching the Bills, gathering around a bonfire, dogs, tractor pulls, planting a huge vegetable garden and tinkering with anything mechanical. He could send any baby and small child into fits of laughter with just a smile, a look, or a well- timed “BOO!”. He was a true gift.

Besides his wife Margaret, he was loved and will be dearly missed by his son Kenneth John Koch and daughter Kelly Koch Biertempfel, son-in-law Tim Biertempfel, grandchildren Michaela (Shannon) Kelley, Jesse Koch, Kenny John Koch, Makenzie Koch (Jeff Foley), Blake and Madisson Biertempfel, Tara Sysol (Pedro Jr.) Molina, Brian (Theresa) Sysol, Lisa Sysol. Great Grandpa to Andrew (Amber) Molina, Tiffany Molina (Victor) Mora, Aaron Wood Sysol, Gage Sysol, Jessalyn Baj, Jackson Sysol, Liam Kelley, Vinny and Penelope Foley, Emmett, Olivia, Madeline, and Grayson Molina. He was a loving brother to Joan (Marvin) Moore, Kay (John) Beeney, Chris (Beth) Koch, John (Carol) Koch and brother-in-law to Marilyn Kuss (who never really knew when he was pulling her leg). He leaves behind many wonderful cousins, nephews, nieces and friends. Mr. Koch will be remembered by family friend Diane Rafan, who was always “Dianey” to him.

Meeting him in heaven are treasured children Michael Kenneth Koch, Dawn Marie Koch, and granddaughter Brianna Marie Wallace.

John 15:12. ” My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”

A private family service and Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.

Arrangements are by the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home.