Eugene Koch

     Eugene Fred Koch, a devoted family man, proud Marine, and lifelong agricultural professional, passed away on January 17, 2026 following a courageous battle with cancer. He was 71 years old.

     Eugene was born on September 5, 1954, in Queens, New York, to Henry and Anita (Williams) Koch. A graduate of the Cambridge Public Schools Class of 1973, Eugene’s sense of duty was evident early; he departed for USMC boot camp in San Diego the same month he received his diploma. Eugene served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps from 1973 to 1976. During his enlistment, he was stationed in various locations, including Okinawa, serving as an administrative clerk and temporarily as a Military Policeman. He achieved the rank of Sergeant before returning to his roots on the family farm north of Cambridge, Nebraska. Eugene was defined by a deep patriotism that stayed with him his entire life; he carried a profound love for his country and the freedoms he served to protect.

     On May 24, 1981, Eugene married the love of his life, Joan Morgan, in Cambridge. Together, they spent 20 years farming across Frontier County. In 2001, they relocated closer to McCook to support Eugene’s career as a seed sales representative—a role he dedicated himself to for over 32 years.

     Eugene was known by friends and neighbors for his quick wit and sense of humor. He had a way of brightening a room and making those around him feel at ease. His faith was the cornerstone of his life; he was a longtime member of the McCook Evangelical Free Church and later the McCook Christian Church. Combining his protective nature with his devotion, he served on the security teams for both congregations. He was also a proud member of the American Legion.

     An outdoorsman at heart, Eugene found joy on the open road and in his personal collections. His hobbies included: motorcycling, embracing the freedom of the ride; collecting, he was an avid collector of guns and knives; and of course, agriculture, maintaining a lifelong connection to the Nebraska soil.

     Eugene faced significant health challenges with tenacity. Diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2022, he later developed a secondary cancer in 2025. Despite his legendary strength, the toll of the cancer and treatments became more than his body could endure.

     Eugene was preceded in death by his grandparents, Fred and Alice Koch and Earl and Kate Williams; his father-in-law, Dr. Morgan; and his nephew, Brady Koch.

     He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Joan Koch; children, Stephanie Montes and Morgan (Miranda) Koch; grandchildren, Zane, Alice, and Selah Montes, and Oliver Koch; parents, Henry and Anita Koch; brother, Kurk (Deb) Koch; a large extended family including many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, and great-nephews and nieces.

     Cremation was chosen. Eugene's family will greet friends from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM on Thursday afternoon, January 22, 2026, at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel in McCook.

     Memorial services are scheduled for 1:30 PM on Friday, January 23, 2026, at McCook Christian Church in McCook with Pastors Bruce Lester, Tim Bauer, and Tim Burke providing words of comfort. Inurnment in the Bartley Cemetery with full military honors will follow services.

     Memorials are suggested to a trust being established in his Eugene's name toward the future education of his grandchildren or to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook.