Ryan Joseph Koschak, 41, of Butler, Ill., died unexpectedly on Sept. 3, 2023, in Fenton, Mo. He was born on Sept. 4, 1981, in Litchfield to Paul "Rick" Koschak and Deborah (Keck) Koschak. He married Abbie Bunge, and she survives.

He grew up in Gillespie. After graduating from GHS in 1999, he pursued a vocational degree at Midwest School of Welding in Lincoln. He worked as a boilermaker (Local 363 -Belleville). He was adventurous in his younger days, but fatherhood changed all that. Ryan had an affection for nature, caring for chickens, beekeeping, hummingbirds, and his feline companion, Pumpkin. His garage served as his sanctuary, where he meticulously crafted intricate machines.

Ryan is survived by his wife, Abbie Koschak; daughter, Vivien; parents, Rick and Debbie Koschak; sister, Stacey Keith (Chris); and several nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Kenneth and Anna (Williams) Keck and Paul and Agnes (Tallman) Koschak.

Services were held on Friday, Sept. 8, at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie.

Memorial donations may be made directly to Abbie Koschak. These contributions will assist in covering his family's expenses and ensuring Vivien's education.