Final Salute

KOCH, ROBERT JEROME Essexville, Michigan Robert “Jerry” Koch, age 72, died peacefully with family by his side on Saturday, August 22, 2020 following a long battle with ALS. He was born on June 10, 1948 to the late Robert and Beatrice (Ouellette) Koch in Bay City. Jerry graduated from St. Joseph High School and attended Delta College. He served in the U.S. Navy as a Seabee in Mobile Construction Battalion 3 (MCB 3) from 1968 to 1972 during the Vietnam War. Jerry was a member of All Saints Parish-Church of St. Boniface, the American Legion Post #18, D.A.V., UAW #362. He retired from GM Powertrain in 2005 after 38 years of service. Jerry was an amateur pilot and enjoyed flying whenever he had the opportunity. After retiring Jerry became an artisan bread baker and enjoyed sharing his craft with friends and family. He was a loving grandfather and his two grandchildren were the light of his life. On December 22, 1972, Jerry married Deborah Sue Kelm. Deborah survives him along with his son, Matthew Koch; two grandchildren: Brody and Sydney Koch; sister Patricia Koch of Fort Worth, TX., brothers: Michael (Connie) Koch of Albuquerque, NM., John Koch of San Antonio, TX, Edward Koch of Palmer, AK., Thomas Koch of Bay City, William Koch of Lake Ann, MI., and Paul Koch of Bay City; brother-in-law, Richard Ault; several nieces and nephews. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and sister Mary Ault. The Koch family would like to thank our special angel, Donna Reetz who helped us through this difficult journey and also thank the staff at McLaren Hospice, the ALS clinic staff at the U of M, and the staff at the Saginaw V A hospital. The Funeral Service for immediate family only will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2020 at 12:30 pm at Trahan Funeral Chapel, 256 N. Madison Ave. Bay City, MI. Fr. Jose Maria Cabrera will preside. Memorial contributions may be directed to ALS of Michigan. Visiting hours will be Friday, August 28, 2020 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm and Saturday 11:00 am until the time of the service at the Trahan Funeral Chapel. Due to current health concerns and gathering limitations, social distancing will be observed. For on-line sentiments: www.trahanfc.com.