Donald E. Koch

Donald E. Koch, 88, of Cairo, died at 10:02 a.m. Thursday, June 4, 2020, at the Illinois Veterans Home in Anna.

Mr. Koch was born on July 26, 1931, in Cairo, the son of George and Verle Looney Koch.  

He married Hilda Baxter-Ivey on June 11, 1955. She preceded him in death on May 6, 2010.

Mr. Koch served in the U.S. Air Force. He owned and operated Koch Shell in Cairo for many years.  

He held many memberships, which included the Knights of Columbus, Elks, American Legion and Masons. He was an avid golfer and a member of the Egyptian Country Club. He was of the Catholic faith and was a member of St. Patrick’s Church in Cairo.

He  is survived by his daughters, Karen (Troy) Jones of Thebes, Lisa Koch of Paducah, Donna Mattera (John Oltman) of Springfield and Lori (Jerry) Bennett of Thebes; a son, Timothy (Tiffany) Koch of Olive Branch; grandchildren Colin Pagano, Abbi Pagano, Hali Mattera, Nicholas Jones, Amanda Bennett, Kathryn Bennett, Allie Koch and Kyleigh Koch.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and by an infant son, Donald E. Koch Jr.  

Private graveside services were held at Calvary Cemetery in Villa Ridge.

Memorials can be made to Illinois Veterans Home in Anna and will be accepted at the funeral home.  

Crain Funeral Home in Cairo was in charge of arrangements.

To view the full obituary or to leave an online condolence for the family, visit www.crainsonline.com.