Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
James Koch Obituary
Jim was born July 27, 1947, in Mason City, Iowa, to Dean and Zae Koch. He graduated from Mason City High School in 1965 and served in the United States Air Force. He married Mary Ottinger in 1970, and together they raised four children. He worked as a firefighter for the Mason City Fire Department while also spending many years as a carpenter and woodworker, helping friends and family with remodeling projects.
An avid fisherman, Jim retired to Greene, Iowa, to be closer to the river. Much of his retirement was spent fishing with his dog Jack, who rarely left his side. It is said the two of them are back on the river together.
He is survived by his children Corey Koch, Jodie Klatt, Craig Koch, and Colin Koch (Michelle); his siblings Deanna Friedrich (Dennis), Jerry Koch (Martha), and Carol Clemens; 10 grandchildren: Hunter, Mitchel, Henry, Clayton, Aaron, Jordan, Pyper, Gage, Lillian, and Asher; and three great-grandchildren: Connor, Jaxson, and Secillia.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dean and Zae Koch, and two brothers-in-law, Daryl Kerchner and Rusty Clemens.
Per his request, there will be no formal service. A summer fishing outing will be planned for family and close friends to celebrate his life.
US Cremation Society, Waterloo, Iowa, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Memories and Condolences
for James Koch
4 Entries
Rita Barth
March 14, 2026
My husband Bob enjoyed fishing the Shell Rock with Jim almost daily before Bob went in nursing home several years ago. Jim lived in Bob's grandmothers little house. I usually saw Jim at our local library. Good memories RIP Jim
Laura & Cliff Reublin
March 12, 2026
We send Jim's family our deepest sympathy. I was the Records Clerk at MCFD and so enjoyed chatting with him during breaks in the dayroom, as we called it back then. I have often wondered where Jim was in his retirement as the last I knew, he was in Nora Springs, I believe if I am remembering correctly. Rest in Peace, friend.
Mary Lee-Anderson
March 12, 2026
We will miss you Jim. Rest in peace.
Mason City Professional Firefighters
March 12, 2026
On behalf of the Mason City Professional Firefighters, Local 41, we are saddened to hear of the passing of Brother Koch. We pass along our sympathy to his family and friends.
How you can show support
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in James Koch's name
Memorial Events
for James Koch
People and places connected with James
Mason City, IA
Globe Gazette
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support James's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor James Koch's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
