Clarence T. (Jr.) Koch

Clarence T. Koch, Jr., 81, of Metamora, IL passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, October 12, 2018 at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria, IL after a courageous battle with cancer.  He was born on October 22, 1936 in Metamora, IL to Clarence T. and Hilda (Marchand) Koch, Sr.  He married Juanita L. Walloch on May 2, 1959 in Peoria.  Clarence and Juanita enjoyed 59 wonderful years together.

Surviving are his wife Juanita of Metamora; sons Dennis (Beth) Koch of Peoria, Bernie (Teresa) Koch and Chuck (Sue) Koch both of Metamora; daughters Denise (Tim) Parr and Teresa (Roger) Fandel both of Metamora; ten grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; brother Lowell (Leslie) Koch of Metamora; and sister Beverly Bruto of Placerville, CA.  He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Patricia and LaVonne, and brother David.

Clarence was a union carpenter and a U.S. Army Veteran.  He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Metamora and a member of the Knights of Columbus Lady of Sorrows Council #3060, having served as a Grand Knight.  He played dartball for St. Mary’s in the Peoria Catholic Dartball League for over twenty years.  Clarence was active in his children’s lives by serving on the St. Mary’s School Board and being a Boy Scout Leader.  Anyone who knew Clarence was blessed by his humor, willingness to help others, and love of his family and friends.  He was an avid fisherman and master gardener.  Many benefitted from the fruits of his labor.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, October 16, 2018 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Metamora with Father Vien Van Do officiating.  Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 3:30 pm on Monday, October 15, 2018 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with visitation to follow from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Monday at the church.  Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Metamora with military rites accorded by the American Legion Post 89.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to St. Mary’s School or St. Mary’s Catholic Church, both at 415 West Chatham Street, Metamora, IL 61548 or OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home, 8630 State Route 91, Peoria, IL 61615.  Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

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