Joseph G. Koch

Joseph G.Koch, 86, of Austintown,passed away Tuesday evening, March 26, 2024 at St. Elizabeth /Mercy Health Center, Boardman. Joseph was born May 22, 1937 in Youngstown, a son of the late Joseph G. and Yvonne (Gerthung) Koch and was a lifelong area resident. 

He graduated from Hubbard High School in 1955 and joined the U.S. Navy. He went on to receive his Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree in Education from Youngstown State University. Joseph started his teaching career at Jackson-Milton Middle School. He then became Principal at Springfield Local Elementary School and retired in 1997 from Ashtabula City Schools. 

He was a member of Mineral Ridge Presbyterian Church where he served as an elder and deacon. He enjoyed traveling, reading and watching the Cleveland Indians/Guardians and the Ohio State Buckeyes.

 He leaves his wife, the former Diane Cline, whom he married June 17, 1978; a daughter, Patricia (Robert) Hartsough of Austintown; a son, William (Anita) Koch of Austintown; two step-sons, David (Joyce) Gibbons of Durango, CO, Steven (Mendi) Gibbons of Reno, NV, and five grandchildren. Besides his parents, Joseph was preceded in death by a daughter, Paula Koch and a brother, James Koch. 

There will be a memorial service at noon on Sunday, April 7th  at the First Presbyterian Church of Mineral Ridge, 3654 S.. Main St., Mineral Ridge, 44440, where friends may call for one half  hour prior to the service. The family requests material tributes take the form of contributions to the church or to Animal Charity, 4140 Market St., Youngstown, 44512.