103-year-old WWII veteran runs Maryland basement bar for six decades

At 103 years old, Irv Koch remains an active presence behind the bar of his basement tavern in Pasadena, Maryland, where he has worked for over six decades. The establishment, which opened in 1963, has become a fixture in the community, drawing patrons who appreciate its informal charm and unique character.

The tavern operates on a flexible schedule with no fixed opening or closing times. Koch begins his day when the first customer arrives and closes the establishment when patrons depart or when he decides to retire for the day. This casual approach to business hours reflects the informal nature of the operation.

The bar operates on a cash-only basis, eschewing modern payment methods in favour of traditional transactions. Despite the passage of more than sixty years, Koch shows no signs of retiring from his position, continuing to serve customers and maintain the establishment himself.

As a World War II veteran, Koch represents a dwindling generation of Americans who served in the global conflict. His longevity and continued active work life have made him a notable figure in his local community, where his dedication to running the basement bar has become part of the neighbourhood's social fabric.