Gary E. Koch

Gary E. Koch, 63, of Dubuque, Iowa was called home on Tuesday, September 5th, 2017. He was doing what he loved, out in the woods preparing his deer stand for the upcoming bow season.

Scripture  service will begin at 12:15 p.m. Saturday, September 23rd, 2017 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home until time of service. This is a celebration of our love for Gary. Private burial will be in Linwood Cemetery, Dubuque, Iowa.

Gary was born to Merle and Delores (Ender) Koch. He surprised his parents by arriving 5 weeks ahead of schedule on September 4th, 1954.

He married Jean Johnson on April 27, 1974, and they were married for 31 years. Although the marriage ended, they remained friends until the end, sharing a bond and love for one another that was never broken.

Gary had a deep love for hunting and fishing, and spent many years as a Hunter Education Instructor through the Key West Sportsman’s Club, passing onto new generations the love of the sport. He was most at peace while enjoying the outdoors.

He was also a member of the Elks Lodge for many years participating and volunteering in their many projects. He volunteered countless hours of time collecting deer hides for the Veterans for the many projects they used them for. He also enjoyed participating in the community fishing derby,  giving kids the chance to go fishing in a boat-many for their first time.

Gary was a master carpenter, and there are many structures standing in the community today that he put his personal stamp on. He was also proud of receiving a scholarship from the Dubuque Homebuilder’s Association.

Gary is survived by his three children. Edward Koch, of Brandon, Iowa, Matthew Koch, of Tucson,  AZ, and Amy Koch (Fiancé Josh) of Sherrill, Iowa; his sisters Debbie (Greg) Hutchinson, of Dubuque and Kim (Mark) Staup of Wylie, TX; his grandchildren Clayton, Ashley, Ryder, Eliana, and Coen; His nieces Heather Schuster and Brianna (Eric) Sanner; Nephews Ryan and Adam Staup.  Also special friends,  Dan Schuster, and Marc Bourgeous. 

He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Merle and Delores Koch.

In lieu of flowers the family will accept memorial donations for the Springer Rescue Midwest who are fostering Gary’s three beloved Springer Spaniels. Saiko, Roscoe, and Chester- his devoted companions for many years- and finding them forever homes. Also, the Sherrill Fire and Rescue Department for their assistance in bringing Gary home. Thank you.

Special Thanks to the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Department, who conducted the search for Gary. And, also Andy Korman, friend and neighbor, who assisted in the search. We appreciate everyone’s efforts very much.

He will be forever missed by all whose lives he touched. May he rest in peace, and forever watch over all of us who mourn his loss. 

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