James William Koch

JAMES WILLIAM KOCH
James passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on April 26, 2025.
He was born in Coal Bluff, Indiana to Russell and Irene (Zambenini) Koch on July 8, 1930.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Joe Koch of Brazil, and grandson, Sammy Plant, Jr.
He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Mary Mace Koch; three children and spouses, James (Julia) Koch, Cathy (Dan) Mills, and Lori (JT) Obenchain all of Rosedale; grandchildren, Jan (Mike) Hughes, Chad( Rachelle) Koch, Jamie Koch, Joe (Shelby) Koch, Leslie (Jake) Bosworth, Stacey (Jed) Page, Matthew (Sarah) Cottrell, Samantha (Justin) Jones, Cody Obenchain, and Brian (Kayla) Obenchain. Plus 25 great-grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren; one sister, Betty Andis of Rockville and many nieces and nephews.
Jim was a lifelong resident of Nevins township in Vigo County. He graduated from Fontanet High School in 1948. He married Mary, the love of his life August 2, 1953. He then served in the Army from 1954-1956. Returning to the family farm along with his wife to build a farm and legacy for future generations.
He was a 4-H member and served as a lifelong Vigo County Fair Board member. In 1975 he received the honor of Conservation Farmer of the Year. He worked hard but always made time for family, friends, golfing, hunting and fishing.
Services will be 11:00 am Wednesday, April 30, at Cottrell-Gooch Funeral Home, 281 N. Main Street, Rosedale, with Bill Herb officiating. Burial will follow in Rosedale Cemetery. Visitation is 4-8 pm Tuesday at Cottrell-Gooch Funeral Home.
Memorials should friends so desire, may be made to Riverton-Parke FFA, 4907 Coxville Road, Montezuma, IN 47862 or Florida Township Civic Center, PO Box 174, Rosedale, IN 47874 or Fontanet Action Community Team (FACT), PO Box 82, Fontanet, IN 47851 in his memory.
Online condolences may be shared at www.goochfuneralhome.com.