George J. Koch, a retired citizen of Allentown, was born Dec. 26, 1849. He learned the milling trade, and for thirteen years followed that trade at Sieger's Mill and at Kernsville. Later he operated a farm for six years and in 1886 he came to Allentown, where he engaged in the retail shoe business, having his store at 805, 815 and 742 Hamilton Street up to Dec. 1, 1909. He had a large trade and was at three places in order stated.

In 1876, he was married to Mary A. Huntzinger, daughter of Owen Huntzinger. Mr. Koch and his family are members of St. Michael's Lutheran church.