Oscar Frank Koch, born on July 28, 1874, in Jefferson Township, Williams County, Ohio, exemplifies the essence of a life dedicated to agriculture and public service. Transitioning from a successful agricultural career to the esteemed position of superintendent of the county infirmary, Koch’s journey reflects his commitment to the community’s welfare. A descendant of Moses and Sarah (Troxel) Koch, Oscar’s life is a testament to integrity, diligence, and civic responsibility. His marriage to Melvina Green and later to Helen Waltz, and his role as a father, further highlight his personal dedication amidst professional achievements.
Oscar Frank Koch. — A worthy native son of Williams County is Oscar F. Koch, who, after spending his life here successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits, is now giving effective service to the county as superintendent of the county infirmary. He has succeeded in his life work because of his fidelity of purpose, keenness of perception, unswerving integrity and sound common sense, and he now enjoys to a marked degree the esteem and confidence of the people of Williams County.
Oscar Frank Koch was born in Jefferson Township, Williams County, Ohio, on July 28, 1874, and is a son of Moses and Sarah (Troxel) Koch, the former of whom was a native of Pennsylvania and the latter born in Wayne County, Ohio. They were married in the latter county and soon afterward went to St. Joseph County, Indiana, where they spent several years. They then came to Williams County and here spent the remainder of their days on a farm. The father gave his support to the democratic party. To him and his wife were born six children, five of whom are living, namely: Diana, wife of Alfred Moore; Daniel, of Jefferson Township; George, of Palmyra, Michigan; Saloma, wife of George Bohner, of Pioneer, Williams County; and Oscar F., the immediate subject of this sketch.
Oscar F. Koch was reared on the home farm in Jefferson Township and secured his education in the common schools of his neighborhood. He remained at home until he had attained his majority, when he started out on his own account, and thereafter he gave his attention to farming pursuits until 1917, when he received the appointment as superintendent of the county infirmary. That he is eminently qualified for this responsible position is evidenced by the successful and businesslike administration of the affairs of the institution, which meets with the approval of the voters of the county.
Mr. Koch was married to Melvina Green, and they became the parents of one son, George K., who was born in February, 1902. Mrs. Koch died in 1902 and in 1908 Mr. Koch was married to Helen Waltz, to which union two children have been born, Hallie and Sherman, both of whom are attending school. Politically, Mr. Koch has always given his support to the democratic ticket and has taken an intelligent interest in local public affairs, consistently giving his support to every worthy cause and movement looking to the betterment of the community in any way. Because of his ability, industry and fine personal character, he is deservedly popular among all who know him.
Source: Bowersox, Charles A. ed. A standard history of Williams County, Ohio: an authentic narrative of the past, with particular attention to the modern era in the commercial, industrial, educational, civic and social development , 2 vols. Publisher Chicago: Lewis Pub. Co. 1920.