Donald R. Koch, age 69 of Beckemeyer, passed away at Aviston Countryside Manor on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Don was born in Breese, Illinois, on December 5, 1956, a son of the late Herbert A. and Violet A. (Beckemeyer) Koch. He graduated from Greenville College in 1980 with a degree in elementary education and began his teaching career at Sparta Elementary School. Don later served as a substitute teacher throughout Clinton County before beginning his career with the Social Security Disability Office in Springfield.
After 13 years with Social Security, Don returned to Beckemeyer to care for his family’s farm. He took great pride in tending the land and especially enjoyed working in his garden. From 2011 to 2022, Don owned and operated Anton’s Catering and Concessions, where he enjoyed cooking, serving, and visiting with customers. Don also cherished the memories he made singing with the Sounds of Harmony Barbershop Chorus and was a faithful member of Immanuel United Church of Christ in Carlyle.
Mr. Koch is survived by his brother, David Koch of Carlyle, and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Violet Koch; his grandparents, Walter and Alma Beckemeyer, and Fred and Martha Koch; and his aunts and uncles, Martha Koch, Doris and Amel Ranz, Richard Koch, Elsie Koch, and Selma “Semmie” Koch.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Carlyle (1970 Clinton St, Carlyle). Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 AM, with a memorial service to follow at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at the Koch Family Farm.
In lieu of flowers or other gifts, donations in memory of Donald Koch are suggested to the Matthew 25 Food Pantry and will be received at the service or through Zieren Funeral Home in Carlyle (PO Box 276, Carlyle). Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.ZierenFuneralHome.com.
