Fred A. Koch, Sr.

Age 75 of Diamond, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Thursday morning, February 8, 2024 at his home.

Born August 16, 1948 in Breese, Illinois, Fred Alvin was a son of Carl F. and Evlyn Celia (Borchers) Koch. He was raised in Breese and graduated from Breese High School. 

Fred was a Union Operator with Local 150, and spent his career working for Ramcorp, retiring in 2008. But Fred's legacy extends far beyond his professional life. He was an exemplary member of his community, giving back in countless ways.

He was an active member of Christian Life Assembly Church in Diamond where he oversaw maintenance at the church for many years. His dedication to the church and its congregation will be remembered by all who attended services there.

Outside of his church community, Fred could be found devoting his time and energy to various organizations. He was deeply involved with the Wilmington Lions Club, serving as its past president. The impact he made during his tenure is immeasurable.

As a veteran himself, Fred also served with distinction in the Wilmington V.F.W., leading the Honor Guard and serving as a past Commander. His commitment to honoring fellow servicemen and women was unwavering.

In recent years after retiring, Fred served as the sexton at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Wilmington and continued to contribute to his community by working as an election judge. 

Fred's generosity knew no bounds - he embarked on mission work that took him to Costa Rica, Haiti, and East St. Louis. In these places, he selflessly offered his time and skills to those in need, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of many.

Fred's caring nature extended to his family as well. He was a devoted husband to his beloved Louvella, whom he married on February 14, 1985. Their story is one of companionship and unwavering support.

Survivors include his wife, Louvella; three sons: Fred Koch, Jr. of Chesterton, Indiana, David Sartore of Braceville and George Sartore of Diamond; four grandchildren: Kailey Koch, Maddox Koch, Tiffany Crosby and Ambrose Sartore; two great grandchildren: Alexis and Amos; one brother, John (Debbie) Koch of Tonawanda, New York; one sister, Jean (Brad) Taylor of Belleville, Illinois, and sisters-in-law: Lana Koch of Lindenhurst, Illinois and Rosalee McCoy, Margaret Mosley and Stella Chapman, all of Ohio, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Walt Koch and his grandson, David Sartore.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Christian Life Assembly Church, 2960 Division Street in Diamond, Illinois on Monday, February 12, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. until time of funeral service 6:00 p.m. Pastor Randy Adams will officiate.

Burial will follow Tuesday morning February 13, 2024, in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois. Those wishing to attend are invited to gather at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington at 9:45 a.m. A formal procession will depart at 10:00 a.m. Committal services and military honors provided by his fellow honor guard members from Wilmington VFW are scheduled for 10:30 a.m.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Fred’s memory to the Wilmington VFW Honor Guard or to Christian Life Assembly Church.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Fred’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes. (815-476-2181)