Kerney (Mitch) Koch

Kaplan—Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, February 8, 2024 at Vincent Funeral Home in Kaplan honoring the life of Kerney (Mitch) Koch, 82, who died Monday, February 5, 2024. He will be laid to rest at Pecan Island Community Cemetery with Chaplain Byron Hypolite officiating the services.

From an early age, Mitch developed a deep connection with the land and a passion for the cowboy way of life. He loved nothing more than riding horses with his friends, and he also enjoyed working cattle with his Grandpa Vincent and father, Ray.

Mitch had another side in his younger years, a youthful spirit that loved the roar of his motorcycle and the wind against his face. He was a friend to many, a true people person who loved conversation. Tragically, through the years he experienced the pain of loss as he bid farewell to childhood friends. These losses left a void in his heart but served as a reminder of the fragility of life.

Adored by those who knew him, Mitch will be sorely missed. He is survived by his wife, Ellen D. Koch; children, Kerney Koch, Jr. and his wife, Elvie, Marlon Koch and his wife, Kathleen, Michele Miller and her husband, Terry; 13 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray Koch and Bergna D. Koch; two brothers, Bernell Koch, and Alvin Bubby Koch; and his first wife, Shirley D. Koch.

The family would like to thank Heart of Hospice for taking excellent care of Mitch.

Visiting hours will be observed at Vincent Funeral Home - Kaplan, 300 N. Eleazar Ave., on Thursday, February 8, 2024 from 10:00 AM until the services begin at 1:00 PM.