Arwin Koch

Arwin G. Koch, 79, of Gordonville passed away Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2012, at his home.

He was born Dec. 22, 1932, in Gordonville, to Arthur and Dora Grossheider Koch. He and Betty Jean Faris were married July 21, 1961, at Zion Lutheran Church in Gordonville. They had been married nearly 18 years when she passed away July 1, 1979.

Arwin attended the former Dutchtown Grade School and then worked several years on the family farm in Gordonville.

He served honorably in the U.S. Army from Feb. 3, 1955, to Jan. 23, 1957.

Arwin established Koch Service Shop in Gordonville in the early 1960s. By trade, he was an electrician, but also did plumbing and particularly enjoyed carpentry. While operating the service shop, he also worked 27 years with the Gordonville Water District.

His family recalls his dedication to advancing his skills through personal study and taking trade classes. They also have special memories of abundant produce from his "small" three-acre gardens.

During his lifelong membership at Zion Church he was an elder, sang in the choir, was instrumental in building repairs and grounds keeping of the church and cemetery.

Loving survivors include three children, Kent (Polly) Koch, Andy Koch, Holly (Brett) Schneider, all of Jackson; five granddaughters of whom he was quite proud, Brittney, Khloe, Abigail and Grace Koch, and Julia Schneider.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Julia Sue Koch; four sisters, Thekla Degenhardt, Delpha Kaiser, Dorothy Kaiser, Helen Lowes; and an infant brother.

Friends may call from 3 to 7 p.m. today at the chapel of McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson, and from 9:30 a.m. to time of service Monday at Zion Church.

The funeral will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the church, with the Rev. Wayne Schwiesow officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery, with military honors.

Memorials may take the form of contributions to Zion Lutheran Scholarship Fund, Tuition Fund or Repair Fund.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.mccombsfuneralhome.com.