William Koch

William Allen "Willie" Koch

Native Name: Red Bear Who Paws at Mother Earth

January 31, 1959 – February 12, 2026

William Allen Koch, known to all as Willie, passed away on February 12, 2026, at the age of 67.

Born and raised in Spokane, Washington, Willie spent most of his life in the city he proudly called home. He graduated from North Central High School with the Class of 1977.

Willie was a man of strength and resilience. In his early years, he drove taxi for his father's taxi company and worked as a welder and mechanic. He had a lifelong appreciation for engines and competition, participating in several amateur demolition derbies and maintaining a love for classic cars and racing.

Later in life, he earned his Associate of Arts degree and worked as a substance abuse counselor at Deaconess Medical Center. In that role, he dedicated himself to helping others navigate difficult seasons, offering understanding, encouragement, and steady support.

Willie was a free spirit who charted his own course in life. Independent and strong-minded, he was never afraid to voice his opinions or defend what he believed. His path was not always conventional, and relationships could be complex, yet he carried a loyalty and presence that revealed themselves when they were needed most. He lived in various parts of Washington State throughout his life, though Spokane and the surrounding area remained his anchor and home.

Willie was a proud member of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, descending from the Cheholtz, Bouchard, Provoe, and Rabbie families. He spent many years learning the cultural traditions of his people and took great pride in sharing that knowledge with others. His Native name, Red Bear Who Paws at Mother Earth, reflected his strength, grounded spirit, and perseverance.

He loved motorcycles-especially Harleys-along with the blues and rock and roll, playing pool, classic cars, racing, and time spent with his dog, Blue. Above all, Willy loved his family-both those of blood and those of choice.

choice.

He is survived by his children: Michael William Koch; Christopher Fitz-Henry (Nadya Fitz-Henry) and their children Katherine, Leda, Sara, Daniel, and Jonathan; Sierra Knudson (Dane Knudson) and their sons Liam, Cameron, and Nolan; Shayla Strickland (Gage Strickland) and their sons Leone and Happy Jax; and his sister, Sammie Fisette. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Philip Koch Sr.; his mother, Ada Blanche Bouchard; his stepmother, Aldene Koch; his brothers Ronald Leroy Bouchard, Clarence Eugene Koch, and Philip Koch Jr.; and his sisters Phyllis Koch-Troncale and Shirley Koch.

Willie's life was marked by grit, passion, heritage, and heart. He lived fully, loved fiercely, and leaves behind a legacy carried on through his family, his culture, and the many lives he touched.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.