Of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Dexter.
Age 86, Bill passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 13, at the Chelsea Retirement Community. He was born January 22, 1940, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Christian Paul and Isabelle (Frayer) Koch.
Bill graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1958. He became a finish carpenter and worked for Butcher and Willits. Bill took pride in building a beautiful home in Dexter for his family.
Bill previously attended St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor, and later became a founding member of Peace Lutheran Church. He enjoyed serving both his church and community. After retiring, Bill and his wife Ruth enjoyed spending lots of time with their grandkids.They also loved to camp and travel, and were part of a “Hi-Lo” camping group.
Bill and Ruth moved to Dancey House at the Chelsea Retirement Community in 2020. They made many new friends and enjoyed visiting with everyone they met. He eventually moved to the Kresge building, where he received outstanding care. Bill made fast friends with many residents and staff alike. He enjoyed frequent activities and outings, and the Kresge staff became family to him.
Bill married Ruth Ann Rafeld on October 12, 1963, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor. She preceded him in death on August 2, 2024. Bill is survived by his son, Brian (Amy Jennings) Koch of Pinckney; his daughter Karen (Kurt) Walworth of Chelsea; his brother Ed (Barb) Koch; his sister Ruthie (Robin) Wright; and his grandchildren, Catie, Austin, Matthew, Kylie, Noah, Emma (Nick), and Cori (Sam). He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Paul Koch.
Funeral services are being planned. Please check back for service information. Memorial contributions may be made to Peace Lutheran Church, 8260 Jackson Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48103, or Chelsea Retirement Community Benevolent Fund.
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