Margaret “Peggy” Koch (née Bazan), 85, of St. Louis, Missouri passed away May 11, 2026. Peggy was born on March 8, 1941 in St. Louis to Sylvester and Peg Bazan. Peggy grew up in Tower Grove East and graduated from St. Francis De Sales High School. She went on to work at St. Louis University until she married Stephen Koch in September 1961. They remained together for more than 64 years at the time of her passing. Peggy was the mother of five children and she created a home where she liked to say she wanted to give her children “roots and wings”—roots to always let them have a place to call home and wings to fly. Peggy went on to work for the Missouri Credit Union League where she progressed in her career from administrative assistant to HR executive when she retired. Peggy’s passion was helping others. Upon retirement, she became involved as an charter member of St. Catherine Laboure’s St. Vincent dePaul Society and served as the board Secretary until health issues caused her to step down from the role. In recognition of her work to establish the chapter and to support people in need, she was presented with the “Servant of the Poor” award by the Archdiocese of St. Louis. Peggy was a shining light who made people feel seen and understood. Many people are grateful for the gift of Peggy in their lives. Peggy is survived by her husband, Steve, her children Cathy Koch Patti (Tony Patti), Susan (Jim) Shroba, Mike (Sarah) Koch, and Dave Koch; her grandchildren Claire Shroba (Lucas Morrissette), Josie Koch, Andrew Koch, and Tess Patti; her sister Anne Essex, her sister-in-laws Mary Bazan and Emily (Jim) Ferrante; and many dear family and friends. She was preceded in death by her son Stephen Gerard Koch and her brother Tom Bazan.
Memorial Mass will be held at St. Catherine Laboure on Saturday, June 27 at 10:00 a.m., 9740 Sappington Rd, Sappington, MO 63128. Feel free to wear bright, happy colors Peggy would have loved. Interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Contributions in Peggy’s memory may be sent to the Society of St. Vincent dePaul St. Catherine Laboure Conference https://www.osvhub.com/sclparish/giving/funds/society-of-svdp-scl-conference
Steve & all your children, hearing about Peggy really was heartfelt . Her kindness was so sincere & loving. Many people have been inspired by the way she lived her life. I have such good memories of many warm conversations we had at the library & grocery store. Peggy’s Light will shine forever for all who knew her. My love to all of you.💕
Thank you, Marge. She was a good one, wasn’t she. We deeply appreciate you sharing your good memories. ❤️
Peggy was a kind, generous, dedicated woman who was a role model to members of the Society of St Vincent DePaul at St Catherine Laboure. She was always available to visit others and provide assistance without judgement. She was our secretary for many years, keeping the group organized with her meticulous record keeping.
I will miss her! May she rest in peace with God!
Thank you, Carol. She always said great things to about your ability to find resources and support for people in need. It is so kind of you to share your memories.
Our deepest sympathies and prayers to The Koch family . The Galati’s
Thank you, Jackie and Giovanni. ❤️
Aunt Peggy modeled for me grace, wit and good humor. Always considerate and ready to lend an ear and at some kind of good perspective, It sure was fun running around with you guys and never better than at the table, sitting on the counter or standing next to the sink. Her influence guides me still and I am at a loss to express my affection. Maybe I could whip up some German potato salad.
I am so sorry. Love