ROCHELLE — Richard E. Koch, 81, passed away Saturday, June 30, 2018, at Franklin Grove Living and Rehabilitation Center with his family at his side. He was born June 25, 1937 in Rochelle, the son of Floyd W. and Viola (Cummins) Koch.  He married Rogene Emma Diehl on March 17, 1957 at her family’s farmhouse in Oregon.

Richard was a lifelong passionate farmer. He loved farming, spending time with his family, and every opportunity to spoil his grandchildren with donuts. He also really enjoyed bowling, and in earlier years: roller skating, square dancing, and playing cards.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Rogene; four children, Richard Jr. (Carol) Koch, Douglas (Candy) Koch, Donna (Edward) Weiler, and Daniel (Nadine) Koch all of Rochelle; seven grandchildren, Hannah (Gene) Hodges, Dustin (Jennifer) Koch, Andrea (Bryan) Borell, Ethan (Melanie) Koch, Garrett (Kelsey) Koch, Cody (Michael) Rose, and Genese (Bill) Rose; six great-grandchildren; and three siblings, Wynetta (Wayne) Myroth of Rochelle, Fredrick (Anita) Koch of Ashton, and Charles (Carol) Koch of Fond de Lac, Wis.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, July 2 at the Unger Horner Funeral Home, 400 N. Sixth St., with Rev. Duane Boehm officiating.  Visitation will be on Monday from 9 - 10:45 a.m. prior to the funeral.  Burial at Trinity Memory Gardens. A memorial has been established.

An online guest book is available at www.UngerHorner.com.