Dad, a man of few words and many tootsie rolls, embarked on his final adventure on March 25th, at the ripe old age of 90. Born on 11/28/34, he spent a lifetime proving that stoicism and kindness could coexist in perfect harmony. He was a doting and loving husband to our mother – Marlene. A 6’3” protector for her tiny 5’2” frame and a calm presence to us 3 kids.
Dad, (aka Paw-Paw) left behind a legacy of meticulously crafted wooden projects, golf and fishing tales and a profound appreciation for the open road (or open water, depending on his mood). He navigated life with the same quiet determination he brought to untangling fishing lines for us kids on camping trips as well as perfecting his woodworking craft.
He was a man of simple pleasures: a perfectly chilled Budweiser (or root beer in later years), a bag of tootsie rolls that mysteriously vanished, and a well-tuned golf game. We, his children, Leo Jr., John, and Lori, spent a lifetime attempting to crack his stoic exterior. Only MASH, it seemed, could consistently break through, eliciting genuine, actual laughs.
In his later years, as dementia gently rearranged his memories, he found comfort in the familiar rhythms of old television shows. However, for reasons we may never fully understand, he was utterly captivated by “Longmire.” Perhaps it was the quiet strength of Walt Longmire that resonated, a man who, like our dad, possessed a deep well of kindness beneath a reserved surface.
He’s now embarking on a road trip where every golf game ends in a hole-in-one and a 19th hole where the beer (be it regular or root) flows freely and tootsie rolls are a staple food group.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association or simply enjoy a tootsie roll and a root beer in his honor.
We’ll miss his quiet presence, his perfectly timed grunts of approval, slight grin (when everyone else is cracking up) and his ability to bring calm to a storm. Fair winds and following seas, Dad. We hope you find the best golf course and beach to spend time with mom. We’ll find you both when it’s our turn.
Visitation Wednesday April 2, 9:30 a.m. until service 11:30 a.m. at KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL, 10151 Gravois Road. Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
John, what a beautiful tribute to your dad! My sincere condolences to you and your family. I’m sure your mom and dad are so happy to be together again.
That is an amazing tribute to your kind and gentle dad…well captured. He loved his family and loved life. Your entire family is in our prayers. May God bless you abundantly at this difficult time.
Blessings, Diane & Gary Kilpatrick
Amazing tribute full of love and kindness. A life well-lived. Strength comes from the sharing of good memories and Leo gave you plenty of those. My heart goes out to you and your family, Lori.. Thinking of you with love, Lisa Duncan
Perfect tribute to your dad. You captured his spirit and his life journey. Leo was so kind to me…he didn’t really have a choice as I spent so much time at your home back in the day. He didn’t speak to me a whole lot, but I always knew he cared. From days on the lake to vacationing in Wisconsin, your parents were the bomb. It’s so comforting to know he is with Marlene. Love to all of you, and Godspeed Mr. Koch.
Sorry to hear of Leo’s passing. He and Your Mom were such good friends of Mom and Dad, they had many good times together. I enjoyed playing golf with him and always enjoyed his company. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May the four friends reunite in heaven with God.
Leo, John, & Lori:
We are sorry for the loss of your dad and my uncle. My wife Sharon only had a couple of too-brief get-togethers with him and your Mom. Uncle Leo was always welcoming to me and my brothers when your Uncle Bob would haul his motley crew from Memphis to St. Louis every year or so when we were kids to reconnect our families. I still remember how Uncle Leo and several of his neighbors would tie their pontoon boats together in the middle of the lake to relax, play, and celebrate being with friends and families on the weekend. Our prayers are with you all.
Tom & Sharon Koch
Knoxville TN
The Schiller family shares many fond (and some rearranged ❣️) memories with the Koch’s. Marlene and our mom, Marie, were part of a group of 9 high school girlfriends from Cleveland HS. As spouses, Leo and Ed were along for the ride and never regretted those 70+ years of friendship. I remember the fun of having the Kochs move to our neighborhood. There was a camping trip. Leo made a set of frames for me. They are Christopher’s godparents. Christine and Lori are continuing the friendship. I’m sure there are more. Godspeed, Leo, may you rest in peace.