David John Koch

David John Koch, Sr. was born June 20, 1940 in Bismarck, North Dakota to Alvin Koch and Katie (Horning) Koch. Dave passed away from complications related to diabetes on April 29th, 2017 at his home in Oregon City. He was 76 years old.

When he was a child, Dave’s family moved to Hermiston, Oregon where graduated from Hermiston High School in 1958. Growing up Dave knew hard times and they shaped his work ethic. As a 12-year old, Dave approached the local appliance store to purchase an electric stove and a refrigerator for his mother. He bought them on contract based on his paper route and shoe shine stand income.

He worked for Safeway Stores for 45 years starting out as a box boy in Hermiston and worked his way up to the position of assistant manager. His career with Safeway included 30 years of managing the meat departments at various stores throughout the Portland area. Dave volunteered for 21 years at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI). He worked on the lights, electrical systems and general maintenance on the submarine USS Blueback, leading the maintenance crew on the submarine for 15 years of his service. He was there every Monday at 6:00AM keeping “the boat” lit.

In retirement, Dave became his informal neighborhood greeter, opening his garage door and sitting in his lawn chair, offering passing neighbors a chair and tall tales. He lured everyone with his charm and great sense of humor. He genuinely enjoyed connecting with people.

Dave leaves behind his wife of nearly 56 years, Vetamae; his children, daughters Denise Cecchetti (Todd) and Shawn Koch (Ann); and son David Koch Jr. (Chris); grandsons Tanner Cecchetti, Joshua Koch, Justin Koch and Jordan Koch; sister Eunice Flanagan, and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, and his sisters Alvina Tompkins and Angeline (Angie) Cox.

There will be a private family burial. A celebration of Dave’s life will be held on Saturday May 20th from 11:00AM to 2:00PM in Canby, Oregon at the Cutsforth’s Town Hall at 225 NE 2nd, Canby. The facility is above the Cutsforth Marketplace. The entrance is on the side of the store and a movie theatre is across the street from the Town Hall entrance. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Diabetes Foundation, or OMSI in support of the USS Blueback.