Ryan Koch

Ryan Michael Koch was born in Chicago, IL, on 9/6/86 to Linda and Thomas Koch. A sweet, “easy” baby, his prominently-set eyes and blonde, wavy hair made him even more adorable. His big sister Lauren (“La”) welcomed him with open arms, and those arms would later enfold Ryan during his toughest times. Like many boys of his generation, Ryan was into skateboarding, and WWF (pro wrestling.) The Koch kids grew up in Arlington Hts., graduating from Prospect H.S. But Ryan would return to Chicago, earning a B.A. from Columbia College. A city boy at heart, Ryan preferred life in Chicago (and KC, MO from 2017-21) over the suburbs.

Ryan’s travels took him to numerous U.S. states. His favorite city to visit was New Orleans. Ryan’s International travels included Mexico, The Bahamas and France.

Comedy was one of Ryan’s great passions, and he studied improv at Second City and IO. Writing jokes was a favorite pastime, and Ryan “took his comedy seriously.” As an avid fan of comedians, many of them from older generations, Ryan especially admired the late Norm MacDonald. Ryan loved to make people laugh, but one huge factor in his life was neither funny nor in his control.

Twice in his brief 37 years, Ryan was diagnosed with, and survived cancer. Over the last 18 months, the latest diagnosis was an ordeal, but Ryan faced it bravely. Through every step of the difficult way, “La,” was Ryan’s staunch companion and advocate. The support of other family and dearest friends John, Kaitlin, Jordan and others inspired Ryan to fight for his life and anticipate a better future.

Few things in life brought Ryan more joy than dogs, and 3 years after he last saw her, he still missed his sweet old “pup,” Pearle. Recently, Ryan even applied to adopt a rescue dog from a shelter. In that effort (and in his cancer battle) Ryan sought and received the support of his loving Godmother/Aunt Annette, her husband Brian, cousin Sydney, and her boyfriend, Chris. The love and support of Ryan’s immediate and extended families, and of the many people who lifted Ryan in prayer, were all sources of strength.

Having immense compassion and empathy, Ryan gave sacrificially to others. One cold night, he gave his jacket to a homeless person, because, as Ryan said “He needed it more.” Ryan loved playing the guitar, listening to records, watching comedy and movies and hanging out with friends.

Ryan was a beautiful soul and until we are with him again, we will carry him in our hearts.

Ryan is survived by his loving family: parents, Thomas and Linda Koch; sister, Lauren (Robert) Gonke; nephew, Nolan Gonke; niece, Fiona Gonke; and many dear aunts, uncles and cousins.

Ryan was preceded in death by his grandparents James and Dorothy Koch, Pauline Brennan, and John and Jacquelyn Brennan, as well as Uncles Michael Brennan and William Koch, who was also Ryan’s Godfather.