It is with deep regret that we note the passing of our brother Knight, Richard W. Kotch, who left this life in the comfort of his home on Friday, May 9, 2025. Brother Richard was 96 years of age and was an Honorary Life, 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, having joined the order on November 1, 1959.
Born April 2, 1929, in Kingston, Pa., he was a son of the late Benjamin and Celia Kmieciak Kachinosky. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, he served during the Korean conflict. He spent his professional career as a tire salesman, employed over the years by General Tire, Premium Tire and Good Tire. Following retirement, he worked as a security guard at Center Township Elementary School. A devout Catholic, Dick was a member of All Saints Parish, where he served as an usher and lector. He belonged to the American Legion and the Butler Quarterback Club.
He is survived by four children, Ann Marie Snodgrass and her husband, Roger, of Harmony, Lisa Ames, of Tampa, Fla., Richard Kotch Jr. and his wife, Lisa, of Butler, and Robert Kotch, of Renfrew. He was affectionately known as “PopPop” to his grandchildren, Austin (Jen) Snodgrass, Heather (Zach) Sydnor, Tyler Kotch, Nate (Kim) Snodgrass and Tanner Kotch; and “Big PopPop” to four great-grandchildren, Addison Sydnor, Brooklyn Snodgrass, Paige Sydnor and Bryson Snodgrass. He was also a loving uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Dick was preceded in death by his beautiful, beloved wife, Mary Ann Budzyn Kotch, whom he married Nov. 16, 1957, and who passed away Nov. 23, 2022 – just about a week after they celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary; two brothers, Benjamin and Frank; and one sister, Connie.
There will be no visitation. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, May 16, at All Saints Parish, St. Conrad Roman Catholic Church, 125 Buttercup Road, Butler, with the Rev. Kevin C. Fazio officiating. Military honors will be accorded at the church by American Legion Post 778, VFW Post 249 and VFW Post 499. Burial will take place in Butler County Memorial Park.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord….and let the perpetual light shine upon him…..may he rest in peace…..may his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace……