Bernard Andrew Bernie Koch

Bernard “Bernie” Andrew Koch passed from this life into the arms of his Lord on May 29th 2019. He was born November 13th 1948 in Cleveland OH to Bernard C. and Felicia (Wilk) Koch. He was the first of 10 children. He spent his elementary school years in Catholic schools in Cleveland. The family moved to Carthage MO where Bernie graduated with the class of 1966. Following high school he attended and graduated from Missouri Southern College in Joplin, MO with a degree in English. He enlisted in the Army Reserve in 1971. Bernie later transferred to the Air Force Reserve where he completed his military service. Bernie began his broadcasting career while in college working for a Joplin TV station. He was an on air news, sports and weather caster. But he was most recognized as the host of a Bugs Bunny cartoon show. Following basic training, Bernie came to Wichita to work for KTVH TV as a reporter and news anchor. His journalism career also included time as a newspaper reporter in Newark, DE. In 1973 he married Ann Brunner, a Kansas farm girl, whom he had met in Wichita. Together they moved to Topeka where Bernie worked for WIBW TV and Radio. This is when he began his years as a statehouse reporter. In 1976 he returned to Wichita and KAKE TV became his TV home. In 1988 he began his 21 year career as Vice-President of Government Relations for the Wichita Area Chamber of Commerce. After leaving that position he worked as a government relations executive for the Tulsa, OK Chamber, but his home and heart were in Kansas. Upon returning, he established his own business, Bernie Koch Government Relations, and was the Executive Director of the Kansas Economic Progress Council until he retired in 2018. He also represented the interests of the Harvey County Council of Governments and the Kansas School Counselors Association. Bernie and Ann had one daughter, Emily, who is married to Gabe Schlickau. Bernie loved his two grandchildren, Harry and Lena. He was a “fun” Grandpa. Bernie will be remembered professionally for his dedication and knowledge of Kansas state government. He spent 44 years consecutively as a reporter or lobbyist at the statehouse. He earned the respect of many. To his family his most important roles were: loving husband, great Dad, fun Grandpa. He leaves a big hole in our hearts and lives.