Melvin G. Koch

Melvin G. Koch, of Forks Rd., West Valley, died Friday February 22, 2019 in HighPointe on Michigan, Buffalo, at the age of 93. He was born July 26, 1925 in Buffalo, New York a son of the late Arthur and Hazel Koch. Upon his graduation from high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served from November 3, 1943 through April 5, 1946. He served in the Sea-bees and was in one of the first units involved in the invasion of Okinawa. He was the last surviving member of his platoon. He was a real estate agent for many years, operating Mel Koch Real Estate and also served as Assessor for the Town of Ashford for 20 years. He was a member of the VFW in West Seneca and Springville, was a member of the East Aurora Driving Society and raised many horses. He is survived by his children - William C. Koch of East Otto, Jeffrey L. Koch of Hamburg, Kim M. Bowen of Springville; five grandchildren - Benjamin & Trevor Koch, Sierra & Alex Bowen and Adam Koch; a great-grandson - Nathan Koch; a sister - Norma (Daniel) Carrol of Elma; a sister-in-law - Helen Koch of Warsaw and several nieces and nephews and his special dog Babe. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife - Shirley A. (nee Ebinger) Koch who passed away January 21, 2006; and siblings - Arthur Koch, Doris (Elias) Schoenhardt and Richard (Lucille) Koch. There are no calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. He will be laid to rest in Maplewood Cemetery, Springville beside his wife.