Virg Koci

Virgil K. Koci, 88, walked peacefully into the open arms of Jesus on Friday December 6, 2024.

He was born June 26, 1936, to Dewey and Mildred (Whitten) Koci.

Virg is survived by his daughters Chris Massoni, Julie (Kevin) Bruns, Sandy (Mike) Siebert, Laura (Dave) Marple and Karla Koci, grandchildren Drew (Megan) and Clair (Emily) Massoni, Meagan (Daniel) Rodenberg, Joshua (Yasi) Marple, Corey (Sydney) Bruns, Kayla Marple, and Toby and Noah Siebert, 4 great-grandchildren, sister Gertrude (Don) Bidwell, sisters-in-law Jessie Koci and Karen Franke, brother-in-law Vernon (Marilyn) Brobst, and many other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Barbara, his parents, sister Doris Garcia, and brothers Eugene (Josephine), Allen “Pete,” and Russell Koci.

Virg was born, raised and lived in the Auburn, Kansas area his entire life. He went to Lone Tree School during his elementary years, was a member of 4-H and Christian Endeavor, and played trumpet in the high school band, as did the girl in the seat next to him—his wife-to-be, Barb Brobst. He graduated from Auburn High School in 1954. Virg and Barb were married July 24, 1957.

Virg served in the US Navy from 1956 to 1958 aboard a seaplane tender based in Oak Harbor, Washington. When they returned to Topeka, Virg continued his lifelong occupation of farming, helping his dad on the family farm and farming his own place. Additionally, he worked at Goodyear Tire & Rubber for 35 years, retiring in 1994.

Virg was a lifelong member of Auburn Presbyterian Church, served as Treasurer for over 20 years, was a Session member several terms, and taught a Sunday School class for many years. His faith in and love for God was reflected in his love and devotion to his family and his generosity to everyone he knew.

The way he lived his life is an encouragement to all who knew and loved him—and who will dearly miss him.

Memorial Contributions can be made to  Auburn Presbyterian Church1101 Washington St. Auburn, Ks. 66402.