Obituary of Samuel "Dude" Alexander Koch Jr.

Samuel “Dude” Alexander Koch Jr., 50 years of age of Baxter, WV passed away on July 4, 2020 at his residence. He was born August 11, 1969 in Fairmont, WV the son of Samuel and Linda Sapp Koch Sr. of Baxter, WV. In addition to his parents, he is also survived by his son Tyler Alexander Koch of Rivesville, WV; sister Cassie Stark and husband Scott of Rivesville, nieces Lexie Spears and husband Rezin and their daughter Olivia (an unborn child due in February) of Bridgeport, WV, Michaela and Kayla Willis; nephew Mason Stark of Rivesville, WV; aunts Donna Vincent and husband Don of Fairmont, WV and Pamela Blumetto and Michael Blumetto of South Carolina. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Paul and Wanda Sapp and paternal grandparents John and Olga Koch. He valued every person he met, never met a stranger, and held his friends close for a lifetime bond. He leaves behind many, many, many dear friends. “Dude” was a graduate of Fairmont Senior High School. He worked several years installing carpet for Custom Carpets in Fairmont and held a certified electricians license. Following the birth of his son Tyler, “Dude” chose to be a stay at home Dad, proudly. The two of them enjoyed camping at Smoke Hole as well as Alpine Shores in Elkins. Hunting, fishing and riding ATV’s were a big part of their outdoor lives. “Dude’s” life was centered around his son and his family. For many years, he volunteered as a coach for Rivesville Little League and Rivesville youth basketball. Our dear son deserves a beautiful tribute. However, we appreciate in this unknown time with the COVID – 19 pandemic that attending a visitation may not be your best interest. If you are able join us in celebrating Dude’s life, we ask you follow the Governor’s mandate of wearing masks to the visitation and funeral. Friends will be received at the Ford Funeral Home, DeGarmo Chapel, Second and Jasper Streets in Rivesville, WV on Friday from 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM. A private funeral service will be celebrated at a later date. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.fordfuneralhomes.com. The Koch family has entrusted the care and arrangements to the Ford Funeral Home, DeGarmo Chapel, Second and Jasper Streets, Rivesville, WV.