Lea Koch

Lea Ann Koch, age 66 of Oswego, IL passed away on Monday, September 15, 2025 at Rush-Copley Medical Center in Aurora, IL. She was born on June 29, 1959 in Aurora, IL the daughter of Dr. Howard and Helen (Olson) Koch. She graduated from Oswego High School in 1977.

Lea Ann was well known locally as the manager of her family’s business, River Heights Veterinary Clinic in Oswego, IL. She loved dogs, horses, cats, and people who tried hard.

Lea Ann’s love of horses began as a young girl, which led to national acclaim. She started showing Saddlebreds, but before finishing high school was earning National Youth Honors in The American Quarter Horse Association. Lea Ann and her Dad will be forever linked to SR Magic Man, AQHA’s All Time High Point Earning Amateur Halter Gelding; she so loved Magic. Lea Ann went on to earn dozens other World Champion and Congress titles with great horses.

Lea Ann’s real passion in life was service to others. She was a Vice President of the Illinois Quarter Horse Association from 1996-1998, and President from 1999 until 2008. She had served as President in 2019 and was currently serving as 2nd Vice President of the Kendall County Fair Association Board of Directors. She has been with the organization since 2009. Where there was a need, Lea Ann would fill it, most often behind the scenes, but often leading by example.

Lea Ann was a loving daughter, and great friend to many who miss her dearly already.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Howard and Helen Koch; a brother; and her precious dogs Maggie, Waylon, and Zoom.

A Celebration of Lea Ann’s life will be held at 6:00 PM on Thursday, October 2, 2025 at the Smith Building, Kendall County Fairgrounds 10286 IL-71, Yorkville, IL.

Friends may visit from 3:00 PM until 6:00 PM on Thursday, October 2, 2025 at the Smith Building on the Fairgrounds, Yorkville IL.

Arrangements by Nelson Funeral Homes & Crematory, www.NelsonFuneralHomes.com or 630-553-7611.