OTTO KOCH

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OTTO KOCH In Loving Memory It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Otto Koch in the early morning of Tuesday December 21, 2010 at the Grace Hospital. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife Alayna, sister Rose Brenner (nee Koch), nephew Frank Brenner (Wanda) their children Natasha, Christopher and Brianna, Alayna's brothers and sisters, her mother Virginia, nieces and nephews, and numerous family and friends in Germany, especially his cousin Otto Hassepass, wife Jutta and their daughters Heidi and Eva-Maria. He will also be greatly missed by his staff at Chicken Delight and the many friends and acquaintances he met throughout his personal life and business career. Born in Germany on November 9, 1937, the only son of Otto Koch and Anna Koch (nee Rapp), Otto was predeceased by his parents, close cousin Adolf Berg and his wife Christa of Kelowna, BC. Otto apprenticed in a first class hotel, came home after three years to work in the family owned hotel and restaurant business, and then decided to strike out on his own. He immigrated to Canada in 1959 and made Winnipeg his home. Working as a bartender at Pierre's restaurant and coming into contact with many customers who were successful entrepreneurs, Otto began to search for his own business venture. With his initial partner, Irv Benne, they purchased the Chicken Delight franchise on Portage Avenue in May of 1969 and acquired additional outlets in the following years. By 1979 Otto was the sole owner of the Chicken Delight franchise rights for Canada, United States and internationally. A remarkable achievement that grew and flourished under his guidance and leadership up until his untimely passing. His business acumen, entrepreneurial spirit, vision and loyal employees were the formula for his success. Otto lived his life with passion, his way, to the fullest. He enjoyed various sporting events especially World Cup Soccer and loved card games particularly Skat with his buddies at the German Club. He was an accomplished player having won many tournaments over the years. Alayna and Otto enjoyed their condo in Winnipeg and cottage at Bird Lake and at either place always loved entertaining friends and family, often serving up some Bird Lake Specials . Otto's thirst for knowledge of history, current events and financial issues was insatiable. His theories on these topics became legendary. His attention to detail and recall of facts and figures were incredible. Otto also looked forward to frequent trips back to Herzberg/Harz, his home town, where he reconnected with family and friends who loved him dearly. A Celebration of Otto's life will take place January 10, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at Glen Eden Funeral Home, 4477 Main Street. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Otto's memory to The Heart and Stroke Foundation, 6 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB. R3L 0K6. For expressions of sympathy please log on to www.gleneden-mb.ca Look for him in the rising sun - a guide on your path til the day is done He will be missed forever Glen Eden Funeral Home 338-7111

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 31, 2010