Charles F. “Chuck” Koch, age 83, of Monroe, died on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Monroe SSM Hospice Home. Chuck was born on February 11, 1941 in Monroe, the son of Frank and Anna (Figi) Koch. He attended West Clarno Rural School and graduated from Monroe High School in 1959. He was united in marriage to Nancy Wunschel on May 5, 1962 at St. John’s United Church of Christ. He owned and operated Marty’s Texaco for several years before building Chuck’s Automotive in 1979. He sold the business to his son, Steve, in 2004.
Chuck was actively involved in the Monroe community as he was a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ, Monroe Moose Lodge, Kiwanis Club, served 22 years on the Monroe Fired Department (two years as chief) and 52 years on Monroe City Council. He also served on the Monroe Senior Center Board of Directors, Monroe Redevelopment Authority, was a fixture selling at the Monroe Farmer’s Market since its inception, and was still a member of the Monroe Police and Fire Commissioners Board. Beside his family, Chuck’s passions included the community of Monroe, gardening, woodworking, fishing, hunting, and having meaningful conversations.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Nancy Koch; son, Steve (Lisa) Koch; daughter, Suzanne Koch (Jeff Moorman), all of Monroe; grandchildren, Logan Koch, Connar (Savanah) Koch, Quinn Moorman, Sophie Moorman; great granddaughter and the “apple” of his eye, Kinslee Mae Koch; brothers, Franklyn (Maryann), John (Cheryl), Richard (Sandy) Koch; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; step-mother, Elizabeth Koch; infant daughter, Louanne; sister, Rosemarye Showers; infant brother, Frank; and nephews, Leland Jr. and Wendell Showers.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at St. John’s United Church of Christ with Rev. Christina Schoenwetter officiating. Interment will be in Bethel-Hawthorne Cemetery, Clarno Township, followed by a luncheon at the Monroe Moose Lodge. Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 19, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, Monroe. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested in Chuck’s name to SSM Monroe Hospice Home, Monroe Farmer’s Market, or St. John’s UCC. Condolences may be shared at www.newcomerfuneralhome.net
