Wernersville Community Mourns the Loss of Carol A. Koch

Carol A. Koch, aged 84, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2025, at Phoebe Health Center in Wernersville, Pennsylvania, following a brief illness. She was the widow of Theodore R. Koch, who predeceased her in 2001. The community remembers her as a dedicated educator and a passionate leader in her church.

A Life Dedicated to Education and Faith

Born on November 2, 1941, in Pittsburgh, Carol was the daughter of the late Rev. William Marburger and E. Kathryn Marburger. She graduated from Blue Mountain High School in 1959 before earning a degree in music education from Susquehanna University in 1963. Her career began as an instrumental music teacher at Blue Mountain, where she inspired many young musicians.

After her marriage, Carol transitioned to a role as a claims adjuster at CNA Insurance in Reading. Her career took her to Orlando, Florida, but following her husband’s death, she returned to Pennsylvania to be closer to her family and friends.

Ministry and Community Impact

Carol’s strong faith became a guiding force in her life, leading her to enroll at the Lutheran Seminary in Philadelphia. In 2010, she was commissioned as an Associate in Ministry at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wernersville. Her responsibilities included serving as Administrative Assistant, Bell Choir Director, and Parish Education Director.

On May 4, 2025, she was ordained to Word and Service in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) as a deacon. Her passion for music and commitment to her church community inspired her to establish the bell choir at Trinity Lutheran, which contributed significantly to the church’s musical offerings. Her presence will be deeply missed by her church family and the wider community.

Carol is survived by her sister, Mary Long of Wyomissing, along with two nephews, Jeffrey and Michael. The family invites the community to gather in remembrance.

Services are scheduled for 11:00 AM on February 14, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church, located at 130 S. Walnut Street in Wernersville. A visitation will precede the service from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at the church. Following the service, burial will take place at Richland Cemetery.

The arrangements are being handled by Lamm & Witman Funeral Home in Wernersville. Online condolences can be expressed at www.lammandwitman.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Trinity Lutheran Church Memorial Fund at 130 S. Walnut St., Wernersville, PA 19565.