Obituary WASHINGTON - Kenneth C. Koch, 88, of Washington, IL, died at 9:02 am Sunday, January 4, 2015 at Kindred Hospital in Peoria. Born on August 21, 1926 in Peoria, IL to Elmer W. and Carrie Burquin Koch, he married Georgia Crawford on October 18, 1952 in El Paso, IL. He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren: son Steven (Janice) Koch of Peoria and daughter Karen (John) Lear of Naperville, IL granddaughters Christina Lear of Indianapolis, IN and Stephanie Lear of Chicago. He was preceded in death by his siblings Robert Koch (Peoria) and Phyllis Kuenstler (San Antonio, TX). He was a United States Navy veteran serving in the Pacific Theater (1944-1946) including the Battle of Okinawa. Ken worked at Caterpillar, Inc. for 37 years. He retired from the Manufacturing General Office in 1980. Upon retiring, Ken became actively involved with the community food pantry, Washington Helps Its People (WHIP). He served as treasurer and other duties as necessary to provide food for those in need. For that service he was chosen for the Washington Chamber of Commerce's "Good Neighbor" Award in 2000. In 2012, Ken was one of three WHIP volunteers who were honored as the Washingtonians of the Year. Ken was an active member of Crossroads United Methodist Church. He served in many capacities and was Lay Leader for many years. A Celebration of Life service will be at 3 pm Sunday, January 11, 2014 at Crossroads United Methodist Church. Clergy from the church will officiate. The family wishes to invite friends to join them at a reception at the church following the service, where they are encouraged to share stories and remembrances of Ken. Memorials may be made to Crossroads United Methodist Church or to Washington Helps Its People (WHIP). Cemetery Details Crossroads United Methodist Church Columbarium Washington, IL, 61571