Richard Leonard Koch

Richard Koch, 86, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Donna, and their children: Dave and his wife Marlene, and Brenda and her husband James. He was a devoted and proud grandfather to Brittany and her husband Nick, Jack, Caroline, Julianna, William, and Ryan. He also recently became a great-grandfather to Derek, a role he embraced with pride and joy. He is also survived by his sister, Rena.

Born in Manhattan in 1938 to Abraham and Ruth Koch, Richard grew up in New York City and attended Stuyvesant High School, where his curiosity and intellect began to shine. He went on to study psychology at the City College of New York, where he was also a proud member of the fencing team.

Driven by a deep love of country and a desire to serve, Richard enrolled in the ROTC program during college. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as an officer in the United States Navy, where he served aboard the USS Parrot, a minesweeper, with distinction.

Following his military service, Richard began a new chapter when he met the love of his life, Donna, while working at Service Merchandise in Nanuet, New York. The two were married on May 22, 1966, beginning a joyful and devoted partnership that spanned nearly six decades.

Richard and Donna made their home in New City, New York, where they lovingly raised their family. He took great pride in creating a warm, supportive household and was deeply involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren.

Above all, Richard was a family man. His greatest joy came from celebrating the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. Whether at a sporting event, concert, or graduation, you could count on him to be the loudest, most enthusiastic supporter in the room. His pride in his family knew no bounds.

Richard also gave generously of his time and talents to the community. He spent many years coaching baseball for New City Little League and was an active member of the Lion’s Club, always eager to help others and make a difference.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 2, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Higgins Funeral Home in New City, New York. A graveside service will take place on Tuesday, June 3, at 11:00 AM at St. Anthony’s Cemetery in Nanuet, New York.

Richard will be remembered for his warmth, humor, patriotism, generosity, and—most of all—his unwavering love for his family.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate any donation be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.