George P. Koch

George P. Koch, 89, of Springfield, died on Saturday, August 27, 2016 at his home. George was born in Springfield, the son of the late Frederick and Elizabeth Neuner Koch. He attended Cottage Hill Grade School (a one-room school house), and graduated from Springfield High School in 1944. He was a veteran of World War II, joining the Army Air Corps in 1943 as an Aviation Cadet, and was discharged in November, 1945. Mr. Koch graduated from the University of Illinois in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. In June of 1952, he married the former Mary Jean Kruse in Colfax, IL. He spent most of his engineering career with Allis Chalmers-Fiat Allis here in Springfield, where he rose through the engineering ranks, ultimately retiring in 1985 as Executive Director, Engineering, Fiat Allis North America. Mr. Koch was a member of the Ansar Shrine, Springfield Consistory, St. Paul's Lodge No. 500, Legion of Honor, Society of Automotive Engineers, Jacksonville Country Club, Aircraft Owner's and Pilot's Association, Illinois Pilot's Association; and he was a pilot. He was also a former registered Professional Engineer in the State of Illinois, member of the Sangamo Club, Elk's Club, and Oak Crest Country Club. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Otto Ernest Koch and Hans F. Cook; and sister, Frieda Wear. Mr. Koch is survived by his wife, Mary Jean; two daughters, Kathleen E. (husband, Robert) McClain and Nina M. Koch, both of Springfield; two grandsons, Robert and Daniel, both of Springfield; and several nieces and nephews. Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center. Graveside Ceremony: 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 1, 2016 at Oak Ridge Cemetery with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating. Military honors will be provided by the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County. Memorial contributions may be made to: Shriners Hospital for Children, 4400 Clayton Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110.