Louis Koch

KOCH

Posted By: Sharon Elijah (email)
Date: 4/8/2016 at 13:17:23

24 August 1917 - The Lowden News

Louis Koch At Wheatland Suicides

Louis Koch committed suicide at his home here yesterday morning about 7:30, by shooting himself in the head with a 22-callibre revolver.

He arose as usual and ate his breakfast with his mother. She left the room and he remained in his chair while she went out of the house. Within a few minutes she heard a sound like something falling, and returning to the house asked Louis what it was. Receiving no reply she saw him still sitting in his chair, apparently dead, with the revolver on the floor.

Neighbors came in and Dr. Bittner was summoned. The shot had not caused immediate death, and the injured man lingered for about an hour, but did not regain consciousness.

He had been in ill health for some time and though exceedingly secretive regarding his affairs, from remarks made to his mother the day previous when he arranged his papers and financial affairs, it is presumed that he had decided that his physical troubles were incurable and quietly planned to end his life. Sunday he had a slight attack at home, and was carried into the house, but recovered in a few moments and went down town.

The coroner decided that suicide was due to despondency over ill health. He is survived by his aged mother, Amelia Koch, five brothers and two sisters, to all of whom his sudden death comes as a severe shock. -- Wheatland Gazette