MELVERN, Kan. – Carolyn Ann Koch, 78, of Melvern, Kan., and formerly of Emporia, Kan., passed away at the home of her daughter on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Carolyn Sigler was born Oct. 24, 1947, in Great Bend, Kan.
She grew up on a farm in Chase County, and graduated from Elmdale High School. Carolyn continued her education at Kansas State Teachers College and earned BSE, MS and Ed. S degrees.
Carolyn married Carroll Koch, Nov. 1, 1968, in Cottonwood Falls, Kan., and they were blessed with two children, Bryan and Kori.
Professionally, Carolyn taught for 40 years in Chase County and the Emporia school district. While teaching at Emporia High School she was awarded the Kansas Master Teacher Award. Carolyn was instrumental in the creation of the Emporia Alternative School, and ended her teaching career as the principal of Riverside Elementary School. She was a long-time supporter of the high school boys and girls swim teams. Carolyn stepped in with Chuck Peoples to coach their children when there were no other coaches to be hired. The Koch Natatorium was named in honor of Carolyn and Carrol’s continued support.
Carolyn had a great love for her family. She spent her summers hosting grandma’s camp with her grandchildren. Carolyn also had a love for flowers and plants. She obtained her Master Gardener certificate, which was showcased every year in her yard.
Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, E. Jay and Thelda Sigler; her husband, Carrol; brother, Terry; and granddaughter, Ainsley.
Carolyn is survived by her son, Bryan (Noelle) Koch. of Hayward, Wisc.; daughter, Kori Irey, Melvern; sister, Marilyn McComber, Strong City, Kan.; brother, Larry (Kathy) Sigler, Strong City; and four grandchildren, Trey Irey, Brennan Irey, Hailey Koch and Wesley Koch.
Carolyn has been cremated and there is no service planned.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Emporia Zoo or the Master Gardeners, sent in care of Feltner Funeral Home, 818 Topeka Ave., Lyndon, KS 66451. Condolences can be left at feltnerfuneralhome.com.
