Dr. Raymond P. Koch
|
Dr. Raymond Koch (Ray) served as the Oregon Chapter President from 2002 through 2007.
He was passionate leader and a great storyteller. Ray's "President's Message" was eagerly awaited in each newsletter and he was known for his portrayal as the Pelznickel in the Christmas program. Ray also served on the AHSGR International Board of Directors for many years. Ray was born in Portland, Oregon on April 21, 1926. He was the eldest child of Anna (née Hartung) and Peter Koch, the first President of the Oregon Chapter of AHSGR. The Koch family emigrated to the United States from Kolb, Russia and the Hartung family came from Frank, Russia. Ray graduated from Jefferson High School in 1944 and received a scholarship to play football for Oregon State University where he studied business and engineering. His college education was interrupted by World War II when Ray served in the U.S. Navy. Ray returned to OSU and graduated with honors in 1950. He later served in the Korean War as an officer. Ray attended the University of Oregon Dental School, graduating in 1957. Ray practiced dentistry in The Dalles until he retired in 1992. Ray passed away on September 20, 2010. |
1946 photograph of Ray Koch who played football for Oregon State University
|