A house RESOLUTION

TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF CARL KOCH OF LANCASTER AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Carl Koch of Lancaster on February 17, 2023, at the venerable age of 76; and

Whereas, Carl was born the son of the late Raymond Koch and Laura Forster Koch. As a young man, he attended a technical high school and served in the United States military during the Vietnam War, and for his military service this patriotic American received a White House Merit Award. During this time of his life, he enjoyed motorcycling, vanning, bicycling, sailing, and skiing with friends. Even then, he was considered a friendly, outgoing, funny guy by those who knew him; and

Whereas, in good time, he met and wed Elizabeth McFadden, with whom he was truly smitten. She considered Carl not just her beloved husband but also her best friend and pillar of strength. The couple enjoyed thirty-eight years of nuptial bliss; and

Whereas, over the years, Carl and Elizabeth shared wonderful trips in the United States and abroad, to destinations as far apart as Florida and Japan. On trips to Florida for spring vacation, Carl drove a vintage car, his beloved Oldsmobile 442; and

Whereas, his sister Carol, who speaks of him as the best brother anyone could have, remembers fondly his kindness and his smile. Carl taught Carol's daughter, Christina, how to ski when she was 5 years old by skiing downhill backwards in front of her. Carl also was devoted to his mother, visiting her every Sunday when he and Elizabeth lived in New York; and

Whereas, one of Carl's favorite weekly events in his later years was the Veterans' Coffee sponsored by Punky's on Lancaster's Main Street each Wednesday morning. He considered it a worthy endeavor and encouraged others to support it; and

Whereas, Carl Koch leaves to cherish his memory a host of family members and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege and pleasure of knowing him. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, express their profound sorrow upon the passing of Carl Koch of Lancaster and extend the deepest sympathy to his family and many friends.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Carl Koch.

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