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Elizabeth Koch

Elizabeth Koch

Elizabeth Marie Koch, 21, of New Athens, IL; born March 25, 1991 in Red Bud, IL; passed away on June 28, 2012.

Elizabeth lived her life with joy and enthusiasm and shared those gifts with family and friends. She was a Junior at Truman State University in Kirksville, MO, a member of St. John United Church of Christ in New Athens, IL and a member of Phi Sigma Phi Honors Fraturnity and Lambda Pi Eta, Nu Chapter.
She worked part time at Cash Saver grocery store and was an intern at the Salvation Army in St. Louis, MO.

She is preceded in death by her paternal grandparents Delbert and Alvira, nee Mehrtens, Koch and a sister – Rachel.

She is survived by her parents Rev. Dr. Robert and Cathy, nee Cummins, Koch of New Athens, IL. Her brother – William Koch of Lake St. Louis, MO. Her maternal grandparents – Bill Cummins of O’Fallon, IL; Marlene Cummins of Troy, IL. 1 uncle – John (Lori) Cummins. 2 Aunts – Jackie (Jon) Snider; Diane (Myron) Hanna. 11 cousins.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are encouraged to go to Truman State University Foundation: Detours Magazine/Elizabeth Koch or to St. John United Church of Christ.

Visitation: Friends may call at St. John United Church of Christ in New Athens, IL on Sunday, July 1, 2012 from 3:00pm to 8:00pm and on Monday, July 2, 2012 from 11:00am to 1:00pm.

Funeral: Services will be held at St. John United Church of Christ in New Athens, IL on Monday, July 2, 2012 at 1:00pm with Rev. Dr. Sheldon Culver officiating.

Interment: Burial will be held at Oakridge Cemetery in New Athens, IL.

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  1. Administrator says:

    Wow, Liz. I don’t even know what to say; I can’t believe I’m even writing this. When Ashleigh told me, I made her repeat it because I just couldn’t even comprehend it. I still can’t, really. I may never truly comprehend it. Someone so bright and cheerful, so unfailingly optimistic, shouldn’t be gone.
    You were a wonderful roommate. A great friend. An all-round good person. I don’t think I could have gotten a better pick for a random roommate. I had some amazing times with you at Truman. There’s so much I wish I could say and so much I can’t even put into words. So I’ll just say I love you, Liz, and will miss you.
    To Liz’s friends and family – though it doesn’t offer much, if any, comfort, I’m so sorry for your loss. She was so vibrant. I feel fortunate to have known her.

    Posted by: Lauren – Jefferson City, MO Jun 29, 2012

  2. Administrator says:

    I did not know Elizabeth but I worked with William for the last 2 years. I am so sorry for your tragic loss and my deepest sympathies go out to her friends and family.

    Posted by: Mar;ena Echele – O’Fallon, MO – Friend of William Jun 29, 2012

  3. Administrator says:

    What an amazing life lived in so few years and what promise and potential for the future! I cannot imagine the pain and void left in the lives of loved ones left. Somehow…some way eventual peace will find its way into each of our hearts. Pastor Bob serving at First Congregational Church in Dupo

    Posted by: Rev. Dr. Robert Lee – Dupo, IL – Colleague of Liz’s Dad Jun 29, 2012

  4. Administrator says:

    Oh Pastor Bob and family,so sorry for your loss. We hold you in our prayers for a sweet peace that passes all understanding. …In HIS love Stan and Bev Lewis

    Posted by: Stan and Bev Lewis – Marissa, IL – friends Jun 29, 2012

  5. Administrator says:

    My heart goes out to your family. Losing a loved one so early in life just doesn’t seem fair. Your daughter was beautiful and my sister Paige Modglin spoke about her all the time. May god fill your head and hearts with strength and courage. Your Angel is now in Heaven. My prayers are with you,your family, and her friends during this tough time. God Bless you Bob, Cathy, and William

    Posted by: Stephanie Junge – Naperville, IL – Church Member Jun 29, 2012

  6. Administrator says:

    Mr & Mrs Koch….Im so very sorry for your loss. My daughter Kalee Werle was a friend of Elizabeths. She was always very nice when I checked out at the grocery store. We will continue to pray for your family

    Posted by: Lori Conaway – Lenzburg, IL Jun 29, 2012

  7. Administrator says:

    A beautiful young woman taken too soon from her family and friends. God has
    great plans for his newest angel. Elizabeth will be waiting to meet you with
    open arms when God calls you each by name. My sincere sympathy to all.

    Posted by: Joan Rickert – New Athens, IL Jun 29, 2012

  8. Administrator says:

    Thank you Liz for being one of my best friends. You were always so bubbly and full of life, there was never a full moment with you and I will cherish each of those precious moments forever. You were too young to go but it was in gods plan and you are now in such a beautiful place looking down on each of us. You’ll always hold a special place in my heart. I love you dear friend.

    Posted by: Carly Hampton – New Athens, IL – Friend Jun 29, 2012

  9. Administrator says:

    I can’t express the heartache I feel for your family! Being a parent it’s hard to imagine that kind of loss. I wish I knew what to say but it’s hard to find the right words. Just know there are people praying for your family in this very difficult time. I didn’t know you daughter but she was very beautiful and obviously had touched so many people’s hearts. Please accept our condolences. Sherri Wilderman Huppenbauer and family.

    Posted by: Steve, Sherri and Hannah Huppenbauer – Galesburg, IL Jun 29, 2012

  10. Administrator says:

    I am so dearly sorry for your loss. I cant ever bring to words what you must feel. She was an amazing person. I have only know her for a short time, but it felt like i knew her my hole life. I hope god can bring you comfort in this time of need. She was so very loved and will be dearly missed.

    Posted by: Courtney Garcia – IL – Friend Jun 30, 2012

  11. Administrator says:

    Our sympathy and prayers for the family. May you feel God’s love surrounding you in this most difficult time

    Posted by: Rev Karen Oplt, & Prospect Park United Methodist Chruch – Fairview Heights, IL Jun 30, 2012

  12. Administrator says:

    As the Department Chair of Communication where Liz was a major, I had the sad responsibility of sharing with our department faculty and students the news of Liz’s passing. While the words below are from that notice, I think they serve as an appropriate expression here as well.

    I extend our sympathies from the Communication Department to Liz’s family, Rev. Dr. Robert and Cathy Koch of New Athens, IL, and William Koch, and to her dear friends. It is clear that she was known as a good friend by many of her fellow students because I have received several contacts from current majors and alums expressing their sympathy and sense of loss.

    Liz was a vibrant part of our department who distinguished herself beyond the classroom. She will continue be known for her contribution to student media, having served on the staff of both the Index and Detours, where her leadership alongside Jessica was integral to the magazine’s success this year. She was also an active and valued member of Lambda Pi Eta. Those of us who had her in one of our classes as her instructor or as a student sharing her learning experience will remember her for her bright and engaging mind, as well as her unfailing positive spirit and warm smile.

    Posted by: Elizabeth Clark – Kirksville – College Professor Jun 30, 2012

  13. Administrator says:

    There isn’t enough words to describe how horrible of a tragedy this is for everyone,especially the family… I knew her when she worked at cash saver and she had the most brightest smile and the biggest eyes! She could always make you smile when you just didnt feel like it…. She is now a angel up in heaven that will never be forgotten… May you rest in peace sweeethart .

    Posted by: Bobbie Mann – New Athens, IL – aquaintance Jul 01, 2012

  14. Administrator says:

    Dear Bob,Cathy and William,
    Our deepest sympathy to you all. When I think of Liz a smile comes to my face. She was a beautiful, joyous, brilliant, spirited, generous and kind … young woman. Liz and Alan were friends since pre-school. We have many fond memories of field trips, school parties, dances, and the many photo sessions at Church before the dances. The numerous times the kids spent together @ St. Johns South watching movies or just hanging out and the times the kids were at our home swimming. She will be missed by so many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God give you the strength and courage in the most difficult times ahead. May Peace be with you.
    Richard, Cheryl, Alan and Cole Klein

    Posted by: Richard, Chery,Alan and Cole Klein Jul 01, 2012

  15. Administrator says:

    Taking care of William and Elizabeth when they were little was so much fun. They helped me learn so much to help me be a parent when I had kids. (Like how to survive 10 straight hours of Barney and Princess movies to standing in line for 4 hours to get a Raincheck to ensure I could get Elizabeth her beloved Barney stuffed toy.) It was always cute and special to me when she would scream Sissy in the Foyer at church when she would see me.

    There isn’t a day that goes by that I haven’t thought of Elizabeth while looking at my own daughter. It will be strange to not see her happy status updates on Facebook and see what she is up too anymore. I know God needed an Angel that could teach all the other angels how to be great. I love her like a little sister and she will be dearly missed.

    There are just so many memories. My heart breaks for Bob, Cathy, and William. Prayers to you all and I wish I was closer to hug you in person.

    Posted by: Tracy Zaring-Viciedo – Miami, FL – William & Elizabeth’s Babysitter Jul 01, 2012

  16. Administrator says:

    I first met Liz in June 2009, on one of the Freshman Orientation days. It was ridiculously hot, we were all crammed into a small gym in the Rec Center, and, as happens at orientations, we were playing get-to-know-you games. We had to introduce ourselves by pairing an adjective with our name that started with the same letter; this was how I first met “Electric Liz,” with her bright yellow printed shirt and sudden but infectious laugh.

    I worked with Liz for the past year at Detours; we spent many long hours copy editing together with several other girls, and I think that, despite the weekend time we lost, we all loved each others’ company. If we seemed tired or down, she’d always have some word or wisecrack to make us laugh. Also, thanks to Liz, when editing in Associated Press style, I will never confuse may’ and might’ or miss an Oxford comma.

    Liz always seemed on top of her game, and I’ll miss having her in my classes and in the office. I always found her to be extremely intelligent with a huge sense of humor, and I would have loved to read the articles she would have written. She could empathize with people and understand their perspectives, and I always admired that. She’ll be missed, and my heart and prayers go to all those who will miss her.

    Posted by: Casey Henderson – Ste. Genevieve, MO – Coworker/Friend Jul 02, 2012

  17. Administrator says:

    Words alone can’t express our heartfelt sympathy in the loss of your wonderful daughter, Elizabeth. We apologize for not being able to atted the serices as we are out of country viting our daughter and her family. We just not reieved notice from our neighbor of the tragedy. May God give you the strength to help you through this difficult time. Ralph and Vicki and Family.

    Posted by: Ralph and Vicki Wildy – Smithton, IL Jul 02, 2012

  18. Administrator says:

    Pastor and Mrs. Koch, William, and Family,

    There are no goodbyes for us.
    Wherever you are, you
    will always be in my heart.
    -Gandhi

    Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of such a beautiful life. My thoughts are with you today and always.

    Caroline Mikaloff

    Posted by: Caroline Mikaloff – Fort Bragg, NC – Best Friend Jul 02, 2012

  19. Administrator says:

    Althought I only knew Liz for about 1 year, she will never be forgotten and will always have a special place in my heart. As I know this is very difficult time for all her family and friends, I know Liz would would want us to celebrate her life, and live each day to the fullest, while remembering all of the great memories we all had with her.

    Posted by: Jim Hayden – St. Louis, MO – Friend Jul 02, 2012

  20. Administrator says:

    I’m with the Delta Sigma chapter of Phi Sigma Pi and I want to offer my sincerest condolences to the family of Elizabeth Koch.

    Posted by: Emma Franklin Jul 03, 2012

  21. Administrator says:

    We are very sorry for your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

    Posted by: Dena, Whitney, Taylor, and Mariah – Waterloo, IL Jul 06, 2012

21 Comments

  1. We are very sorry for your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

    Posted by: Dena, Whitney, Taylor, and Mariah – Waterloo, IL Jul 06, 2012

    Reply
  2. I’m with the Delta Sigma chapter of Phi Sigma Pi and I want to offer my sincerest condolences to the family of Elizabeth Koch.

    Posted by: Emma Franklin Jul 03, 2012

    Reply
  3. Althought I only knew Liz for about 1 year, she will never be forgotten and will always have a special place in my heart. As I know this is very difficult time for all her family and friends, I know Liz would would want us to celebrate her life, and live each day to the fullest, while remembering all of the great memories we all had with her.

    Posted by: Jim Hayden – St. Louis, MO – Friend Jul 02, 2012

    Reply
  4. Pastor and Mrs. Koch, William, and Family,

    There are no goodbyes for us.
    Wherever you are, you
    will always be in my heart.
    -Gandhi

    Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of such a beautiful life. My thoughts are with you today and always.

    Caroline Mikaloff

    Posted by: Caroline Mikaloff – Fort Bragg, NC – Best Friend Jul 02, 2012

    Reply
  5. Words alone can’t express our heartfelt sympathy in the loss of your wonderful daughter, Elizabeth. We apologize for not being able to atted the serices as we are out of country viting our daughter and her family. We just not reieved notice from our neighbor of the tragedy. May God give you the strength to help you through this difficult time. Ralph and Vicki and Family.

    Posted by: Ralph and Vicki Wildy – Smithton, IL Jul 02, 2012

    Reply
  6. I first met Liz in June 2009, on one of the Freshman Orientation days. It was ridiculously hot, we were all crammed into a small gym in the Rec Center, and, as happens at orientations, we were playing get-to-know-you games. We had to introduce ourselves by pairing an adjective with our name that started with the same letter; this was how I first met “Electric Liz,” with her bright yellow printed shirt and sudden but infectious laugh.

    I worked with Liz for the past year at Detours; we spent many long hours copy editing together with several other girls, and I think that, despite the weekend time we lost, we all loved each others’ company. If we seemed tired or down, she’d always have some word or wisecrack to make us laugh. Also, thanks to Liz, when editing in Associated Press style, I will never confuse may’ and might’ or miss an Oxford comma.

    Liz always seemed on top of her game, and I’ll miss having her in my classes and in the office. I always found her to be extremely intelligent with a huge sense of humor, and I would have loved to read the articles she would have written. She could empathize with people and understand their perspectives, and I always admired that. She’ll be missed, and my heart and prayers go to all those who will miss her.

    Posted by: Casey Henderson – Ste. Genevieve, MO – Coworker/Friend Jul 02, 2012

    Reply
  7. Taking care of William and Elizabeth when they were little was so much fun. They helped me learn so much to help me be a parent when I had kids. (Like how to survive 10 straight hours of Barney and Princess movies to standing in line for 4 hours to get a Raincheck to ensure I could get Elizabeth her beloved Barney stuffed toy.) It was always cute and special to me when she would scream Sissy in the Foyer at church when she would see me.

    There isn’t a day that goes by that I haven’t thought of Elizabeth while looking at my own daughter. It will be strange to not see her happy status updates on Facebook and see what she is up too anymore. I know God needed an Angel that could teach all the other angels how to be great. I love her like a little sister and she will be dearly missed.

    There are just so many memories. My heart breaks for Bob, Cathy, and William. Prayers to you all and I wish I was closer to hug you in person.

    Posted by: Tracy Zaring-Viciedo – Miami, FL – William & Elizabeth’s Babysitter Jul 01, 2012

    Reply
  8. Dear Bob,Cathy and William,
    Our deepest sympathy to you all. When I think of Liz a smile comes to my face. She was a beautiful, joyous, brilliant, spirited, generous and kind … young woman. Liz and Alan were friends since pre-school. We have many fond memories of field trips, school parties, dances, and the many photo sessions at Church before the dances. The numerous times the kids spent together @ St. Johns South watching movies or just hanging out and the times the kids were at our home swimming. She will be missed by so many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God give you the strength and courage in the most difficult times ahead. May Peace be with you.
    Richard, Cheryl, Alan and Cole Klein

    Posted by: Richard, Chery,Alan and Cole Klein Jul 01, 2012

    Reply
  9. There isn’t enough words to describe how horrible of a tragedy this is for everyone,especially the family… I knew her when she worked at cash saver and she had the most brightest smile and the biggest eyes! She could always make you smile when you just didnt feel like it…. She is now a angel up in heaven that will never be forgotten… May you rest in peace sweeethart .

    Posted by: Bobbie Mann – New Athens, IL – aquaintance Jul 01, 2012

    Reply
  10. As the Department Chair of Communication where Liz was a major, I had the sad responsibility of sharing with our department faculty and students the news of Liz’s passing. While the words below are from that notice, I think they serve as an appropriate expression here as well.

    I extend our sympathies from the Communication Department to Liz’s family, Rev. Dr. Robert and Cathy Koch of New Athens, IL, and William Koch, and to her dear friends. It is clear that she was known as a good friend by many of her fellow students because I have received several contacts from current majors and alums expressing their sympathy and sense of loss.

    Liz was a vibrant part of our department who distinguished herself beyond the classroom. She will continue be known for her contribution to student media, having served on the staff of both the Index and Detours, where her leadership alongside Jessica was integral to the magazine’s success this year. She was also an active and valued member of Lambda Pi Eta. Those of us who had her in one of our classes as her instructor or as a student sharing her learning experience will remember her for her bright and engaging mind, as well as her unfailing positive spirit and warm smile.

    Posted by: Elizabeth Clark – Kirksville – College Professor Jun 30, 2012

    Reply
  11. Our sympathy and prayers for the family. May you feel God’s love surrounding you in this most difficult time

    Posted by: Rev Karen Oplt, & Prospect Park United Methodist Chruch – Fairview Heights, IL Jun 30, 2012

    Reply
  12. I am so dearly sorry for your loss. I cant ever bring to words what you must feel. She was an amazing person. I have only know her for a short time, but it felt like i knew her my hole life. I hope god can bring you comfort in this time of need. She was so very loved and will be dearly missed.

    Posted by: Courtney Garcia – IL – Friend Jun 30, 2012

    Reply
  13. I can’t express the heartache I feel for your family! Being a parent it’s hard to imagine that kind of loss. I wish I knew what to say but it’s hard to find the right words. Just know there are people praying for your family in this very difficult time. I didn’t know you daughter but she was very beautiful and obviously had touched so many people’s hearts. Please accept our condolences. Sherri Wilderman Huppenbauer and family.

    Posted by: Steve, Sherri and Hannah Huppenbauer – Galesburg, IL Jun 29, 2012

    Reply
  14. Thank you Liz for being one of my best friends. You were always so bubbly and full of life, there was never a full moment with you and I will cherish each of those precious moments forever. You were too young to go but it was in gods plan and you are now in such a beautiful place looking down on each of us. You’ll always hold a special place in my heart. I love you dear friend.

    Posted by: Carly Hampton – New Athens, IL – Friend Jun 29, 2012

    Reply
  15. A beautiful young woman taken too soon from her family and friends. God has
    great plans for his newest angel. Elizabeth will be waiting to meet you with
    open arms when God calls you each by name. My sincere sympathy to all.

    Posted by: Joan Rickert – New Athens, IL Jun 29, 2012

    Reply
  16. Mr & Mrs Koch….Im so very sorry for your loss. My daughter Kalee Werle was a friend of Elizabeths. She was always very nice when I checked out at the grocery store. We will continue to pray for your family

    Posted by: Lori Conaway – Lenzburg, IL Jun 29, 2012

    Reply
  17. My heart goes out to your family. Losing a loved one so early in life just doesn’t seem fair. Your daughter was beautiful and my sister Paige Modglin spoke about her all the time. May god fill your head and hearts with strength and courage. Your Angel is now in Heaven. My prayers are with you,your family, and her friends during this tough time. God Bless you Bob, Cathy, and William

    Posted by: Stephanie Junge – Naperville, IL – Church Member Jun 29, 2012

    Reply
  18. Oh Pastor Bob and family,so sorry for your loss. We hold you in our prayers for a sweet peace that passes all understanding. …In HIS love Stan and Bev Lewis

    Posted by: Stan and Bev Lewis – Marissa, IL – friends Jun 29, 2012

    Reply
  19. What an amazing life lived in so few years and what promise and potential for the future! I cannot imagine the pain and void left in the lives of loved ones left. Somehow…some way eventual peace will find its way into each of our hearts. Pastor Bob serving at First Congregational Church in Dupo

    Posted by: Rev. Dr. Robert Lee – Dupo, IL – Colleague of Liz’s Dad Jun 29, 2012

    Reply
  20. I did not know Elizabeth but I worked with William for the last 2 years. I am so sorry for your tragic loss and my deepest sympathies go out to her friends and family.

    Posted by: Mar;ena Echele – O’Fallon, MO – Friend of William Jun 29, 2012

    Reply
  21. Wow, Liz. I don’t even know what to say; I can’t believe I’m even writing this. When Ashleigh told me, I made her repeat it because I just couldn’t even comprehend it. I still can’t, really. I may never truly comprehend it. Someone so bright and cheerful, so unfailingly optimistic, shouldn’t be gone.
    You were a wonderful roommate. A great friend. An all-round good person. I don’t think I could have gotten a better pick for a random roommate. I had some amazing times with you at Truman. There’s so much I wish I could say and so much I can’t even put into words. So I’ll just say I love you, Liz, and will miss you.
    To Liz’s friends and family – though it doesn’t offer much, if any, comfort, I’m so sorry for your loss. She was so vibrant. I feel fortunate to have known her.

    Posted by: Lauren – Jefferson City, MO Jun 29, 2012

    Reply

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