Monica Lynch Koch died of natural causes January 5, 2012, in McKinney, Texas. She was born August 1, 1923, in Painesville, Ohio; A 6.7 square mile town with a population of 8,338. Monica became instilled with the depression-era ethic of hard work and kindness to all humans while living with her grandmothers, sister, and brother in a house built by her father, John J. Lynch. She lived in the family home (run as the neighborhood's sustainable farm) until she was married. Rich land on three city lots, coupled with her father's green thumb produced complete meals for not only the family, but extended family neighbors. Breads and desserts were also freely exchanged. Monica's mother, Irene Bowden Lynch, taught Monica honest cooking of the fresh foods. Fruits were Monica’s favorite. She became known for her pear, apple, and rhubarb pies. It was a special thing to witness the sparkle in her eyes as she devoured what she called a "dead-ripe" piece of seasonal fruit. Monica worked relentlessly to explore and experience life. She was eager to dive into any cultural or intellectual activity, including music, theater, travel, card-playing and poetry. At a young age she studied violin and viola. She played the piano regularly throughout her life. Her frequent renditions of "I Want a Willow Tree" inspired her father to give her a Weeping Willow that he planted along the street in front of the house. It tapped into an underground spring and become one of the biggest trees in Painesville that could be seen for miles; A partner to how high she would live her life. After receiving her bachelor of arts degree from Ursuline College in 1945, Monica's desire for adventure led her to apply for an overseas position with the Red Cross at the end of World War II. She accidentally stumbled into someone else's interview for a desired station and impressed the interviewer enough to be flown to Germany to entertain troops with dancing, skits and her radio show: 'Mac and Moni'. She was then assigned to Japan. Her desire to travel was established. Returning to Painesville, Monica continued "giving back". She sent canned hams to imprisoned volunteers who were working inside the chemical company to keep it going during a strike. One of the ham-eating volunteers, George J. Koch, had dated Monica previously and when the strike was over he asked her out again. Monica broke a date she had with another suitor to go out with the handsome George. He offered a ring. She accepted his proposal. They married February 4th, 1950 and lived the rest of their lives happily together. Monica devoted herself to contributing to society by passing loving and caring to humankind though her children. She and George raised six siblings, successful and unique in their character. An incredibly organized mother, she also inspired creativity. No type of artistic expression was suppressed, often to Monica’s proud amusement. “What do you call it?“ Traveling was encouraged. George and Monica cajoled every child to play a musical instrument of his/her choosing. The piano rarely needed dusting because the keys were always active. Family debates and artistic expression flourished at every meal. Good manners and kindness toward others were inherently expected. When Monica’s father died, her mother, Irene Lynch, came to live with the family. Irene's strength, passing through Monica, inspires her children and grandchildren even today: a trait (or challenge to others) labeled: “Lynch Stubbornness”. Monica returned to social work at United Methodist Children's Home after her youngest child entered school. She worked with functionally challenged and foster children, as well as adults with disabilities. Well into her 80s, Monica continued volunteering with children. Monica was a life-long devoted Catholic and active participant in her church. “Keeping the brain active.”, Monica and George regularly played bridge. Her panther-like sly aggressiveness resulted in a partner team that very often beat the pants off the entire game room. An attitude of bidding beyond convention described her daily attack on life. Monica is survived by her sister, Valery, brother, David and children Christine and Jan, Leslie and Joseph, Marcia, Jeff Koch and Joel Harms, Jennifer and David Orenstein, Ted and Lydia Koch, Nalini Koch, and spiritual daughter Leslie Biskamp as well as, grandchildren Brett, Lisa, Scott, Jennifer, Nick, Jane, Kate, Morgan Matt, and Lindsey. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 9, 2012 at St. Gabriel the Archangel Catholic Church, 110 St. Gabriel Way, McKinney Texas. Family and friends are invited to participate in a Rosary Service on Sunday from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the church. Donations may be made to Ursuline College, Pepper Pike, Ohio, (440) 449-4200.