Charles I. Koehler

KOEHLER, CHARLES I. 'RED', 79, born June 24, 1928, passed away in Naples, FL, after a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Barrington, he was the son of the late Clifford L. and Emma V. (Trombley) Koehler. Charles worked for 30 years for Guild Drilling and Boring. Red served his country,with honor, in the US Army during WW 2, the US Air Force during the Korean War and the US Navy. He was a member of the RI Laborer's Union, for 45 years, the IOOB, the Fraternal order of Moose and the American Legion. He enjoyed driving his Lincoln, especially while gator hunting, puzzles, Florida's wildlife and adored his constant companions, dogs Murphy and Goldie.

He leaves his daughters, Linda Thatcher and her husband Michael of Naples, whom he lived with for the past two wonderful years, Deborah Stratton of Rumford, half brothers Richard Koehler of Riverside, Paul Koehler of Bradenton, FL, a half sister Rita Tillinghast of Clermont, FL, granddaughters Chelsea Thatcher of Naples, Julie Aguiar of Oregon and Miranda Stratton of PA, grandsons James Thatcher of Bedford, NH and Christopher Stratton of PA and a great grandson Oscar Thatcher of Bedford, NH. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, loving friends and neighbors. Predeceasing him were brothers Clifford and Robert Koehler.

It is the family's wish that a private graveside service, with Military Honors, be held in the Rumford Cemetery on Tuesday. Memorial gifts may be sent to Avow Hospice, 1095 Whippoorwill Ln., Naples, FL 34105. Arrangements entrusted to the J.H. WILLIAMS & CO. FUNERAL HOME, 210 Taunton Ave., East Providence.