Koch, William “Bill” James, of Deer Harbor, WA, passed away peacefully with his devoted family by his side February 19 in Rancho Mirage, California. His passing was unexpected and he was making plans for his 80th birthday celebration in March. Born and raised in Chicago, Bill leaves his partner of over 20 years, Anne Remington; daughter, Kathryn Koch (Bret) Thurman of Orcas Island, Washington; sons, Mark Koch, and Kurt (Wendy) Koch of Orange County; step-daughter, Julie Remington of Orcas Island, niece, Carol Myhren; nephew, Tom Brush; grandchildren: Trevor, Karissa, Kylie, Taylor, Mackenzie, Ashley, Amber, Autumn, Evelyn, Owen, and great-granddaughter Erica, step-nieces, Heather, Grace, and Ellie, and a wealth of great friends.

Bill grew up in Chicago during the Great Depression and began working at age nine to help support his family. His early jobs ranged from working in an assembly line braiding bread dough and making cookies to becoming a chemist in a steel mill. While working for his dad pushing wheelbarrows of cement, he decided college should be a goal.

A veteran of the Korean War, Bill joined the US Army at age 17 and was promoted to Sergeant. Upon his honorable discharge from the military, he attended Northwestern University.

After moving to Southern California he ventured into the aerospace hardware industry. In 1957 he founded Anillo Industries, Inc., Orange, CA. Bill became a successful business man and entrepreneur. He was an avid golfer winning many trophies and frequently participated in the Bob Hope Classic placing second in 1977. He was a long time member of Santa Ana, LaQuinta, and Sunrise Country Clubs in CA. He was commissioned into the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels and a member of The American Legion. He was a founding member of the Wild Game Feed of Orange County,CA, a charitable and conservation organization. Bill lived in Newport Beach, CA and Deer Harbor, WA for many years. His passion for fishing and boating eventually led him to relocate to Orcas Island where he enjoyed spending time with his family, friends, beloved pets, and farm animals. Bill had a generous spirit and believed in living life to it’s fullest. He loved music, theater, and never missed a parade. We will pay tribute to him March 13 at 3 p.m. in the bay of Orcas Island Fire and Rescue in Eastsound. Friends are encouraged to bring photos and share favorite stories.

Submitted by Bill Koch’s family.