Kenneth Wilbert Koehler

Kenneth Wilbert Koehler passed away peacefully on Monday the 18th day of March 2024, on his 91st birthday. Born in 1933 in Pierce, Nebraska, to William Koehler and Margaret Noerenburg. Kenneth led a life marked by kindness, wisdom, and courage.

Throughout his 91 years, Mr. Koehler’s warm smile and generous spirit touched countless lives. He carried himself with a friendly demeanor that drew people to him, and his wisdom often served as a guiding light to those who knew him.

Mr. Koehler’s professional life was a testament to his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. He retired from Nucor steel in 1979 after many years of dedicated service. His commitment to his work was only rivaled by his devotion to his faith and his community, as a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church where he served as a past elder, embodying the spirit of service and leadership.

Mr. Koehler's true joy was found in the great outdoors, engaging in custom hay baling, and living the farm and ranch life that he so cherished. His connection to the land and the rhythm of nature was a source of endless satisfaction and peace for him. His love for his family shone brightly, especially when it came to his cherished grandchildren, who were the light of his life and his pride and joy.

He joins in Heaven his parents, William and Margaret Koehler; stepmother, Lillian Koehler; his loving wife Navonne Peters Koehler; sisters; Merna Edwards, Geraldine Schulz, and Marvelyne Fuerhoff; brother, Galen Koehler; and his granddaughter, Mallory Schoppe.

Mr. Koehler's legacy is lovingly carried on by his children, Lori Owens and husband James, Vicki Howard and husband Danny, Julie Schoppe and husband Larry, and Brian Koehler. A special place in his heart was held for his niece, Kimberly Baumann and husband Michael. Ken's brother, Darrel Koehler, and wife Marjorie, sister-in-law’s, Faye Koehler, Barbara Peters, and Jeanette Peters also survive him, along with eleven grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great- grandchild. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, other family members, and a host of friends who were touched by his generous spirit and genuine character.

Friends are cordially invited to gather with the family beginning at one o’clock in the afternoon on Saturday, the 23rd of March 2024, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1515 Loop 256 in Palestine, where a funeral service will commence at three o’clock, with Rev. Allen Bauer officiating. Interment will follow, via an escorted cortege, at Muse Cemetery in Slocum.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers during the service are Jerrod Meador, Stephen Howard, Matthew Howard, Kyle Koehler, Daniel Perez, William Johnson, and Sam McCaskill. 

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorials in memory of Kenneth Koehler can be directed towards Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1515 Loop 256, Palestine, TX 75801.

Funeral services for Kenneth Wilbert Koehler are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.

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