Jerome Mitchel Koch, age 68, of Knippa passed away Thursday, Aug. 4, 2011. He was born June 2, 1943, in San Antonio, the son of Mitchell Otis and Irene Agnes (Carle) Koch, who preceded him in death. He was a farmer-rancher. Jerome loved country music, raising livestock, and being outdoors, but mostly he loved his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all. He is survived by his children, Jennifer McClain and husband Phil of San Antonio, Jeff Koch and wife Trina of Fircrest WA, Melissa Spinks and husband Melvin Houston, and Jessica Valadez and husband Robert of San Antonio; grandchildren, Andrew E. Koch, Savannah E. Barloco and Alina G. Valadez; his former wife, Martha Juanelle Rouse; sisters, Mary Sowards and husband Norman of Boerne and Ann Hammonds and husband Don of San Antonio; brother, Pat Koch and wife Linda of Natalia; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, Aug. 7, at Guinn-Horger Chapel, with Rosary recited at 7 p.m. Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 8, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, D'Hanis, followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.