Richard Valentine Koss

Richard V. Koss Sr., aka "Babe" passed away in Hemet, California on Tuesday, October 22, 2013 at the age of 95. He was born on Thursday, March 28, 1918 to parents; Gregory and Apolonia Koss in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Richard grew up in a chicken hatchery in Wisconsin and that peaked his interest in animals and farming. So, when he became an adult, his passion was for farming. In his lifetime, he tended many gardens. He loved growing vegetables and fruit. His crops went from the garden to the table. He said he only gardened to please his wife, Esther and to provide greens for her to cook for the family. He grew tomatoes and peppers and other assorted vegetables. He also worked many years as a Machinest. His children remember tractor rides during harvest time, slopping the pigs and collecting the eggs from the chickens. He taught them to shovel snow and they always enjoyed family reunions on the 4th of July. He was well-known for is "Burnt Chicken" BBQ. It was burnt to perfection!!!

Richard was a strict, but loving Grandfather. He was extremely dedicated to his wife and missed her terribly when she passed. He was a happy man, who may not have been able to hold a tune, but loved to sing out loud. He was known as a "speedster", whether it was in his vehicle or on his suped golf-cart.

Sadly, Richard's son, Richard Jr. passed away the day after his Father. Both Richards will be dearly missed.

Richard Sr. will be missed by son, Larry, and his daughters Deanna and Suzette. Missing him will be his grandchildren, Michael, Christina, J.R., B.J. Shaun, Denise, Elisa, and Penney. Additionally, saddened by his passing will be his 12 great grandchildren.

Richard touched many lives during his 95 years of life and will be truly missed by all those who were honored to know him and who loved him.