Remembering KW Elvis

Friends and family of Ron Koch, aka KW Elvis, will gather next week to remember a man described as genuine, kind, friendly and humble.

Ron was often seen in the Frederick St. and downtown area of Kitchener, in his trademark Elvis jumpsuit.

He passed away Thursday, Sept. 13 at Waterloo Hospice. Koch was 71-years-old.

Ron was born in Vancouver, B.C. and moved to Ontario at the age of 10 along with parents and a stepbrother.

He lived in several care institutions before finding a home with KW Habilitation.

It was while there he met his life-long partner Tammy.

Ron enjoyed the simple things in life; a decaf 4×4 from Tim Horton’s, a night out at the Heidelberg Hotel or a smoke and chat with friends.

He was best known for his colourful Elvis jumpsuits. He amassed an impressive collection from around the world. His family says he will cremated in his favourite, the white “Aloha” suit.

Later in life, Ron was able to go for a visit to Elvis’s home, Graceland, twice.

After his passing, memories began pouring in to Facebook and Reddit, with people saying how much they will miss seeing him around and the joy he brought to everyone he interacted with.

Ron will be remembered at a Celebration of Life at The Henry Walser Funeral Home, 507 Frederick St., Kitchener on Thurs., Sept. 26, starting at 3:30 p.m..

A visitation will precede the service from 1:30 to 3:15 p.m. that day.

Following the service, Kelvis and the Burning Love Band will perform at the reception.

The family has asked for donations to the KW Habilitation affordable housing project on Frederick St. in lieu of flowers.