Gladys M. Koch, 96, of Kirkland, IL died Sunday evening, June 11, 2006 in St. Annes Center after a lingering illness. Gladys was born September 21, 1909 the daughter of Harvey and Maggie (Cline) Strawn. She married Ralph J. Koch on November 19, 1932 in Geneva, IL. Gladys devoted her life to the children she taught. She started her teaching career in the rural setting, and retired from Washington Elementary School in Belvidere. She graduated from DeKalb Teachers College and earned her master's degree from Northern IL University. She was a member of Flora Community Church.Survivors include her daughter, Bonnie J. Hatfield of Caledonia; extended family, Charles (Karen) Hatfield, Jr., Bill (Nancy) Hatfield, Shane (Kim) Hatfield, Kim (Jeff) Franta, Stacy (A.J.) Halverson, Laurie (Nick) Mendez, and families. Gladys is predeceased by her parents, husband; two brothers, Henry and Theodore Strawn; son in-law, Charley Hatfield, Sr.

A memorial will be established in her name for education and can be given in care of the family.