Dave "Coach" Koch

1948 - 2023

Dave "Coach" Koch
Hearts broke on Monday, September 25, 2023 with the passing of Dave "Coach" Koch, 74, of Hamden. Dave was born in New Haven on December 17th, 1948, and was the son of the late August and Fannie Torello Koch. He was the beloved husband of 52 years to Valerie Martine Koch. Loving father of David Ryan Koch and his wife, Rebecca, Jody Koch, Erika Koch, Jeff Koch and his wife, Nancy. Proud and devoted grandfather of Zachary, Maren and Lily Grace Koch, Maris and Myles Beaudry. Dave graduated from Lyman Hall in 1967 and dedicated a significant part of his career to the United States Postal Service (USPS), where he made a valuable contribution to his community. His hard work and dedication were greatly appreciated by his colleagues and the people he served. Working with the post office, Dave began his enthusiasm for giving back by canvassing for the United Way. In his later years, after his first diagnosis of cancer, he transformed his focus on working with the American Cancer Society (ACS) and dedicating his life to do great work for all those impacted by the disease. He was very involved with a branch of the ACS- the Cancer Action Network, lobbying for cancer-related funding and awareness in Washington. Dave was recently honored by his team in Washington this year at the national Lights of Hope Memorial for the exceptional work he has done with them over the last 20 years. In his free time, David enjoyed various hobbies, including teaching spinning and tai chi at area gyms and immersing himself in nature. He had a passion for beekeeping and spending time at the beach with his family. These activities brought him peace and fulfillment. He found solace in the beauty of the world around him. He would encourage his children to seek out nature during challenging times for clarity. Dave's faith was an important aspect of his life. His spirituality provided him with strength and guidance throughout his journey. He was a member and past Grand Knight of the Hamden Knights of Columbus council #3605. Dave was an inspirational figure in the lives of many. Known for his nonjudgmental and accepting nature, he coached others through life's challenges, always encouraging and supporting them. He was a generous and loving individual who left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of knowing him. He made friends everywhere he went. The "Coach" will be deeply missed by all who know him. His legacy of love, acceptance, and encouragement will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have crossed his path. He lived his life with a motto- "There are only good days and great days". In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to Camp Rising Sun. This charitable organization holds a special place in Dave's heart, and any support given will help provide transformative experiences for children who have been diagnosed and impacted by cancer. Memorial contributions may be made to: Camp Rising Sun, P.O. Box 472, Branford, CT 06405.
The visiting hours will be Sunday (TODAY) from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at The Havens Family North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue, North Haven. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church/St. Paul VI Parish, 2819 Whitney Avenue, Hamden, on Monday morning, October 2nd at 10:00. Interment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Whitney Avenue, Hamden. www.northhavenfuneral.com