Ryan Joseph Koschak
September 4, 1981 – September 3, 2023
In Loving Memory of Ryan Koschak
Ryan Joseph Koschak, age 41, from Butler, IL, bid us an unexpected farewell on September 3, 2023, in Fenton, MO. Ryan’s journey through life was a high-voltage adventure. Born on September 4, 1981, to Paul (Rick) Koschak and Deborah Koschak (Keck) in Litchfield, IL, he grew up in Gillespie, IL, alongside his older sister Stacey Koschak (Keith). After graduating from GHS in 1999, he pursued a vocational degree at Midwest School of Welding in Lincoln, IL. Ryan’s spirit was as fiery as his welding torch, earning him a reputation for his craftsmanship as a Boilermaker (Local 363 -Belleville), as well as his crafty sense of humor. He possessed the rare gift of turning even the dullest moments into uproarious laughter. Ryan was a true friend to many and a brother-in-spirit to countless others. His warmth and laughter left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. He had a knack for touching lives wherever he went, leaving behind a trail of memories that will forever be part of his remarkable legacy. In his earlier days, Ryan seemed to have had nine lives, embarking on daring adventures that often left us shaking our heads in disbelief. But then, Abbie entered his life, and together, they embarked on a new adventure – parenthood. Abbie helped him trade his risk-taking for diaper-changing as he wholeheartedly embraced the wonderful adventure of fatherhood. Ryan’s love knew no bounds, particularly when it came to his daughter Vivien, whom he adored beyond measure. Abbie, his beloved wife and the love of his life, was his partner in every sense of the word. Ryan had a unique affection for nature, caring for chickens, beekeeping, hummingbirds, and his feline companion, Pumpkin. His garage served as his sanctuary, where he meticulously crafted intricate machines and occasionally muttered a few choice words under his breath when his tools disagreed with him. Above all, Ryan had a heart of gold, and his kindness became legendary. He touched lives with his generosity and humor, making him not just a man but a legend. As we bid farewell to Ryan Koschak, let us remember him not with tears but with smiles, for his spirit will forever illuminate our memories. Ryan is survived by his wife Abbie (Bunge) Koschak, his daughter Vivien, his parents, Rick and Debbie (Keck) Koschak, his sister Stacey Keith (Chris). Nephews: Jared Gansz, Luke Goldasich, Brody Keith, Sean and Sam Zaloudek. Nieces: Emma Gansz, Brentleigh Keith, Caroline Goldasich. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Kenneth & Anna (Williams) Keck and Paul & Agnes (Tallman) Koschak. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 8, 2023 at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie, IL from 5pm-8pm. Services will be held at 8pm. In honor of Ryan’s memory, we kindly request that, instead of flowers, donations be made directly to Abbie Koschak. These contributions will assist in covering his family’s expenses and ensuring Vivien’s education.