Paul A. Koch

Paul A. Koch
(January 17, 1939 - November 8, 2014)

Paul A. Koch, 75, loving husband, father and grandfather went home to be with The Lord on Saturday, November 8th with his loving wife by his side.

Paul was the last of seven children born to Charles and Marie Koch in Pittsburgh, PA. Beginning at the age of 13, he attended minor seminary in Philadelphia, PA and Harpers Ferry, WV. Upon graduation from minor seminary and high school, Paul attended Marist College and Catholic University of America, earning Bachelors degrees in Philosophy and Theology as well as studying to become a Catholic Priest of the Marist order. Shortly after ordination, Paul received his Masters degree in Counseling from Catholic University. He then went on to teach high school psychology and theology at St. Peter Channel High School in Bedford, OH for six years as well as serving as athletic director, head of the counseling department and moderator for the parents club.

In 1971, Paul married his wife Chris and moved to Oregon to start their new life together. He had hoped to resume teaching high school, however was offered a job with the State of Oregon Employment Division as Counselor to Veterans and women with dependent children. He held various training and counseling positions within the Employment Division, eventually working his way into a managerial position. In early 1983, Paul was appointed Deputy Administrator of the Executive Department by Governor Vic Atiyeh and served in that role for the next four years. Afterwards, he moved on to other Personnel and Labor Relations positions within the Department of Administrative Services. In 1998, Paul was selected to head up the creation of Human Resources for the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training Academy in Monmouth. He retired from this position and the State of Oregon in 1999.

Throughout his life and even more so after retirement, Paul was dedicated to serving his Church. Since 1977, he attended St. Edward's and served on various committees including the Pastoral and Administrative Councils. Paul also was the Chairman for Keizerfest and for St. Edward's booth at the Mt. Angel Oktoberfest. In the past two years, one of the projects Paul was most passionate about was the building of the chapel at St. Edward's and he rejoiced to see it completed.

Above all Paul never stopped ministering the gospel, being the hands and feet of Jesus to the world around him. He quietly shared Christ's love through his everyday actions, and when needed used words. Paul's demonstration of humility and strength leaves a legacy to all of those who loved him. We can't wait to see him again in the presence of our Savior.

Paul is survived by his wife of 43 years, Chris, son and daughter-in-law Aaron & Jennipher, three grandchildren, Abigail, Benjamin and Elizabeth, and sister Rita Dzubinski.

A celebration of Paul's life will take place on Saturday, November 15th at 11AM at St. Edward's Catholic Church in Keizer. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Edward's Catholic Church, Capital Campaign Fund at 5303 River Road N Keizer, OR 97303.