Alive and Well, Thanks

“The report of my death has been greatly exaggerated”--Mark Twain.

I recently had an experience that was devastating to my family and myself due to the fact that the Associated Press and various television channels printed my picture in reporting the death of Howard Koch, who was one of the three writers of the famous film “Casablanca.” Now I know how Twain felt in 1897 when he wrote the above quote to the Associated Press.

My name is Howard W. Koch, and no relation to Howard Koch, the writer who died last week. The lack of research to find the right photo caused my wife, family and friends undue distress.

There must be a better way for the news media to find the proper photo to go with the proper obituary. In this instance, it was a nightmare and we are still receiving condolence calls. Would you please print this letter to advise anyone who receives this newspaper that Howard W. Koch, the producer-director, is alive and well. Thank you.

HOWARD W. KOCH

Hollywood