Mr. Eugene "Gene" Koch, 72, of Rochester, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 9:39 PM, Thursday, April 13th , at Peabody Retirement Community of North Manchester.

In Rochester, on May 6 , 1944, Eugene Arthur Koch was born.  He was the treasured son of  James Russell "Ted" and Frances E. Martin Koch. Growing up he shared his childhood with his sister Nancy Ellen.  In 1963 Gene graduated with great Tiger pride from Talma High School.  During his high school years he played on the men's basketball team and was remembered for his distance running events on the track team.

On September 10 , 1966 in Rochester, Gene married his high school sweetheart, the love of his life and best friend, Janice Colleen Bryant. They shared over 50 years of life's adventures. From their union came three wonderful children: Janelle, Angela and David.  The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of seven grandchildren and a great-granddaughter.

With a passion for agriculture, Gene was happiest in the fall when the optimum time came for the bountiful harvest.  He farmed over 300 acres of corn, wheat and soybeans.  In his earlier years he enjoyed overseeing  a fine herd of Charolais cattle,  hogs and some 4-H goats.   His farm shop included a unique collection of  wrenches and oil cans.

Gene attended the First Baptist Church of Rochester.  As a member of the Fulton County Historical Power Association, Gene enjoyed showcasing his collection of antique  John Deere tractors. He was especially proud of his restorative efforts of the 10-Series.  Another membership he held was with  the Rochester chapter of the  International Order of Odd Fellows.

Each morning began with meeting his buddies for coffee at the men's round table of the Craig Welding office.  It was here that they shared the latest local news and solved the world's problems.  No day was complete without lunch at the VFW, while enjoying a cheeseburger and coke.

Paramount in his life was his family.  Grandpa Gene was proud to oversee four generations.  He loved the visits of the grandchildren and his new "great."  There was nothing better than being with family while celebrating  the holidays and special  gatherings.

Left to cherish Gene's memory are his wife Janice; two daughters: Janelle Shanes and husband Jim of Rochester, and Angela Merley and husband Eric of Claypool; a son, David Koch and wife Kristy of Rochester; seven grandchildren:  Tyler Skarbek, Jessie Skarbek, twins: Maycee and Lillie Koch, Kennedie Brooks, Shay Merley, Kayla Merley; great granddaughter Natalee Ann Mooneyhan;   a sister, Nancy E. Trump and husband Robert of Tippecanoe; mother-in-law Rowena Bryant of Rochester; and two nieces.

Preceding Gene in death are his parents and father-in-law, Kenneth D. Bryant.

Rev. Junior Bose and Dr. Mark Spencer will officiate services. Interment will be in the Rochester IOOF Cemetery.