Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Charles Koller Obituary
Sunday, July 7, 2013, surrounded by his wife and children. He was born December 16, 1948, in Akron, Ohio. He received his undergraduate degree from The University of Michigan; and his medical degree from The Ohio State University.
Chuck joined the faculty of the Leukemia Department at MD Anderson in 1986. He was a frequent participant in the HPD Bicycle Relay Team, raising awareness and funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. As someone who cycled to work every day, these long distance trips combined his passionate work toward a cure for leukemia with his enthusiasm for cycling.
Not only was he a dedicated, compassionate physician, Chuck was an inspiration to his family and friends. Chuck is survived by his wife, Paula Bottecelli; his five children, Sarah, Paul, David, Rachel and Leah; his parents and four siblings.
The funeral service will be held Wednesday, July 10, at noon, at Congregation Brith Shalom, 4610 Bellaire Blvd. Burial will follow at Congregation Beth Yeshurun Cemetery, 1001 North Post Oak.
Donations may be made to Charles A. Koller Endowment for Leukemia Clinical Fellowship, M.D. Anderson Department of Leukemia, c/o Mary Silverstein, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Box 428, Houston, TX 77030 or to a charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Charles Koller
Sponsored by anonymous.
Joe Anne Daigre
July 29, 2023
There is seldom a day passes that I do not think of Charles Koller who walked me through years of illness, finally saving my life. It wasn't easy.
He showed me so much about how to live life.
When I think of him I always remember his beautiful family... God bless you always.
Rebecca Helms McElroy
July 4, 2023
Miss you still, Dr. Koller! Guess all your patients always will..
Joe Anne Daigre
July 7, 2022
I miss him still. I am sure I always will. There are not enough superlatives without being maudlin and embarrassing us both.
I keep a snapshot of Charles as a Leukemia Bike fund raiser on my desk and always remember Paula and his whole family. We all miss his wisdom and kindness.
Joe Anne Daigre
July 8, 2019
It is still and will always be impossible to put into words how much I miss just knowing Charles Koller in the world with us. I met him in 1988 when he told me " we have no cure for what you have ( CML) but my job is to keep you alive until we do." What physician tells that to a cancer patient! Perhaps more should. And he did it!!
So,so much has happened over that time.
I will always love him and his wonderful family who carry him forward.
I am happy this page remains open.
Rebecca McElroy
July 4, 2019
I surely wish Dr. Koller were here today. I really still miss seeing him in the clinic. His philosophical views, his intellect, his wisdom, and his genuine care were always a comfort. There was, and is no one quite like him.
Daniel Correa
May 26, 2017
My Hero
Just knew he passed away Wow
He Saved my life in 1995 when I was diagnosed with
Lymphoma Lymphoblastic at MD Anderson Cancer Center he was addressed as my Physician
God Bless You Charles A Koller
Forever Yours
Daniel Correa
Elaine Roberts
March 23, 2017
I'm sorry about your dad, Paul! Both of my grandfathers died when I was little. I miss both of them a whole lot.
James Stephen (PV) Peavyhouse
July 24, 2015
This will only be online for two weeks but I have to write anyway. CK (his nickname at U of M) was my roommate for all four undergrad years. He taught me to play the guitar and much about how to take school seriously (though I never learned that well). We pursued our different directions after I moved to Florida and I truly regret not making contact before he passed. He was a kind man and a great character already in the late 1960's. I will not forget him.
July 6, 2015
It's been awhile since I've seen your angelic face Dr. Koller. You were always so kind and gentle. Anytime I had a question in clinic you answered it without hesitation, never making me feel inadequate. Thank you for all you did for me and for your patients. I will never forget the first year I came on board to the Leukemia Clinic you were getting a humanitarian award and I was invited to attend this awesome event in your honor and I remember all the people that stood up and gave speeches about all the good you did. I was so proud to be a nurse that worked with such an amazing MD. God Bless you sir and your family:)
Anonymous Nurse in Leukemia
7/6/15
R D Winthtrop
May 29, 2015
Just came across this ... Dr. Koller worked w/ me in Michigan late 1970's on legislation and subsequently a state program to secure medical cannabis for cancer patients ~ probably wouldn't have happened w/o his efforts.
Fine man ... RIP
- R D Winthrop [Port Hueneme CA]
September 25, 2014
Paula,
I just learned of the death of your husband. I am coming to Houston for the ITNS conference this weekend and was trying to look you up to see if we might meet when I came across Chucks obituary. My heart is breaking for you and your children, the loss of a husband and father at such an early age seems so unfair. Please know that you are in my prayers, hugs to all of you. Kasha Newcomb your old MICU buddy.
Theresa Allen
June 17, 2014
Dear Dr. Koller,
I believe you are seeing my message to you. Thank you for being the kind, compassionate, patient and ever present physician in the fight for my husband, Mike's, battle with CLL. I always felt your deep heartfelt concern for Mike. With you in charge, I knew he was getting the best care possible. Your answer to my every question was well thought through before you spoke. I truly respected you and your empathy for your patients. Loved your smart bow ties. Thank you for caring for my sweet husband. You you treated him like he was special. Blessings to your family.
Dr. Charles Koller and my late husband, Roy Kennedy, Jr. August 1994
Carolyn C. Kennedy
June 9, 2014
I have just learned of the death of Dr. Koller through a letter I receive yearly from the Houston Police Relay Team. I have donated to this event yearly since my late husband died in May 2000 because Dr. Koller was a participant in that race. He was my husband's leukemia doctor at M. D. Anderson and from our very first visit to him in October 1991 with subsequent visits until my husband died, he was the doctor that always gave us hope and encouragement. We traveled for almost nine years from Macon, Georgia to Houston, TX for consultation and treatments under Dr. Koller and I don't think we could have found a finer more qualified doctor than him. His quiet demeanor and wonderful sense of humor made those hard days easier. I am deeply, deeply saddened to learn of his death and my heart and prayers are with his family. Dr. Koller made a difference in our world and I am grateful to have known him and for the care he gave my late husband.
Mark Reed
April 24, 2014
Oh my. I just went over to take him to lunch and learned of his passing I want to tell you that there are very few people in the world who touch our lives. Chuck was one of those . Chuck treated my father over 20 years ago and we visited when I was last in Houston 2 years ago. My guess is you still have the grandfather clock that he bought in fairhope those many years ago. My dad had a special place in his life as he was chucks first patient to have spontaneous remission. May your family be blessed with the knowledge that he was not only a world class doctor but a world class man as well
Gwen Davis
April 21, 2014
Such a sweet man...such a loss...we will miss him greatly!! He treated my son when he was 16. Prayers for the family.
Kathy & Roy Jones
April 20, 2014
Wonderful Doctor for my Dad Leroy.
Carol & David Nisbet
October 4, 2013
We were so saddened to learn just two days ago of Dr. Koller's passing. I have been blessed to be his leukemia patient for nearly 3 years. It was an easy decision for me (and for my husband and son) to place my life and my care into his capable hands. He was always available for every question, easy to understand, and decisive, strong and sure, in a word "calming." Our deepest sympathies to the Koller family and to all who loved him. To Dr. Koller: Thank you for all your good deeds and acts of kindness you contributed while on this earth, rest well in Heaven, my Good Doctor. You will never be forgotten....
Joe Anne Daigre
September 20, 2013
In my heart forever.
Longtime patient and friend, can't say Goodbye just once.
September 19, 2013
Sorry to hear about the loss of this great man. He was our Father's doctor at MD Anderson from 2001-2009. He will be sadly missed. He treated our father with great compassion and energy and we will be eternally grateful for everything he did for Dad.
The Jack Reuter Family.
Rebecca McElroy
August 18, 2013
Dr. Koller was indeed a life saver, a friend, a confidant for the fears and worries of his patients. He did it all with a calm reassurance that I shall never forget. Rest now Dr. Koller, your impact on so many lives will live forever.
Jeff and Sue Van Every
August 17, 2013
Paula,
It was with great sadness that Sue and I read your letter informing us of Chucks passing. Our heartfelt prayers go out to you and your family. It only seems a short time ago(27 years), I was staying at your house playing with the kids. Dr. Koller is the reason I am here today and was able to watch my children grow up, get married and have children of their own. Chuck was my neighbors Doctor in Ann Arbor years before we first met. During our first visit at MD Anderson we were both amazed at how small the world actually is. He saved my life twice when others had given up on me. First by putting me in remission from CMML and then by using a new treatment regiment to allow me to gain my strength back making a bone marrow transplant possible. My fondest memories of the many follow-up visits to MDA was getting to see Dr. Koller again. We truly loved this man; he was a great healer; but a better friend. Jeff and Sue
Gaylon Birdwell
August 12, 2013
What a wonderful man and doctor! I'm sorry I didn't learn of his death until a couple of days ago. His expertise cured me of PRCA a few years ago. He was always kind and gentle in his demeanor, no matter what your station in life. He will truly be missed.
Melissa Deleon
August 9, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the Koller family. There are no words to express how greatful i am to have Dr.Koller as my LIFE SAVER, i was diagnosed with AML in 2007 when i was 7 months pregnant. Dr. KOLLER saved my&babies life he was an outstanding human being i looked forward each and every visit because he was such an inspiration to me. His beautiful smile, his bow ties, the way he would walk in and present him self i can keep going with such great memories i have from him. He is now resting in paradise...Dr.Koller i will truely miss you, love you from the bottom of my heart!!
Cynthia Fisher
August 8, 2013
My heart goes out to the Koller family. Dr. Koller was an AMAZING man. I love him and will miss him.
August 7, 2013
I was his financial advisor for 20 plus years. As a young financial advisor back in 1989, Chuck had trust in me to manage his investments.Chuck was engaging in conversation we connected. For this I am greatful for the trust he had for me over the years and his loyalty. I enjoyed our meetings. I could go on about his charitable nature and his bycylce rides to work.I will miss him. A true dedicated cancer pioneer~
Lisa Talbert
August 5, 2013
In 2007 our family first met Dr. Koller when my husband, Philip, was first diagnosed with AML. We are all so grateful to Dr. Koller as he not only was a brilliant physician, but he had a tremendous bedside manner, and calming demeanor. Even after Philip was able to be released from MDA care, Philip talked Dr. Koller into one more visit. We just loved Dr. Koller and are forever grateful for him. Our sincere condolences to his family and colleagues.
Zandria Huddleston
August 4, 2013
Dearest Mrs. Koller, children, and Family, you have our Families Sincere Sympathy in the death of Dr.Koller. We feel so blessed to have know such a kind, intelligent, caring, gentle,and dedicated physician. Words seem so little to say about the person who with guidance from God saved my life. I along with all of my family truly loved and was very Thankful for all that Dr. Koller has done for me. Going back to M. D. Anderson will never be the same with out the Doctor with the larger than life smile and all those colorful bow ties.I was and for ever will be blessed to have know such a great Man.
Curt & Denise Pitre
July 29, 2013
We were very saddened when we heard that Dr. Koller had passed. He was a true blessing in our lives. We came to know him about 10 years ago when Curt was referred to him for CML. Because of Dr. Koller Curt is in remission.
Our deepest sympathy to the Koller family you are in our prayers.
John Morton
July 18, 2013
Paula and family,
Chuck was a true giant of a man. He was an incredible physician and an even more incredible person. His unrivaled knowledge was exceeded only by his truly amazing decency, wisdom, compassion and humility. He saved my life as a Doctor and improved and enriched it as a friend. I will remember always the many hours I enjoyed talking and riding bicycles with him. I cannot begin to fathom your loss.
The world has lost one of its greatest and is a much lesser place with his passing. He will be sorely missed.
Noshing Khodadadian
July 16, 2013
He was amazing physician. Our condolences to the entire family. Noshing from iran
July 15, 2013
Dear Paula, children, siblings, parents my heart goes out to you all. I think of you each new day as you wake to realize he is really gone from your presence and each night as you retire with him in your thoughts.
Twenty five years ago other doctors had written me off as a lost cause and told me to get my affairs in order.
Dr. Koller said " We have no cure for your CML. My job is to keep you alive until we do."
I was 47, now I am 71. What an extraordinary man! He is the father of the rest of my life.
He glows forever in all our hearts.
Joe Anne Daigre,Friendswood
Cindy Thornton
July 14, 2013
More than 16 years ago, God blessed me with the most wonderfully caring, witty and amazing doctor. I will miss him! My deepest sympathy and prayers for the Koller family.
Amber McDonald
July 12, 2013
Dr. Koller was a man of such great character. I loved seeing how well he loved and cared for his family. I will always appreciate how warm and welcoming he was to me. There is no doubt he has been an inspiration to many, both in a personal and professional manner.
July 11, 2013
Paula and family please know that you have been and continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. I will always cherish the memories made across the miles during our bike rides especially those we shared with "Paulie" and my grandson Brenden. Then was our last ride in the Arizona heat always with his sacred bag of letters. We all loved "Doc" Koller and feel we will never be the same as we were before this loss, but are ever so much better for having known someone so great to lose.
Joe Shockley HPD Bike Team
Cindy Murphy
July 11, 2013
Paula and family,
Thinking of you all at this time and wishing you all peace. I enjoyed working with Chuck many years ago on a special project at MDACC. He holds a special place in my heart.
Lorena Collier
July 11, 2013
My deepest sympathy to Dr. Koller's family and his Anderson family. He will be missed. Dr. Koller made me feel like I was part of his team. He was a true gentleman and wonderful physician.
Linda Clark
July 11, 2013
My father was diagnosed with AML in 1994 and Dr Koller was brought in to oversee his treatment. My husband was diagnosed with AML in 2009 and my Mother recommended Dr Koller. I found his email address and explained our situation. He wrote me back the next morning and got us an appointment. I can't express enough how much it meant to us.
I lost my father and husband to leukemia but the kindness he showed warms my heart.
Duree Trautwein
July 10, 2013
A wonderful, compassionate, kind man and great great human being..It was my honor to have been his patient ,and to have traveled to Canada w the HPD bike relay team as a supporter when he was riding to raise funds for research...... The world will miss this amazing man....RIP. Thank you from this survivor....God speed...you are resting w angels.......What an amazing man....
STanley Schneider
July 10, 2013
I remember when we first met when our sons were in Indian Guide. Even though that was a long time ago, he always greeted me with a smile as if we were still a couple dads with our boys. My thoughts and prayers are with you all
Gisela Sanchez-Williams
July 10, 2013
Dear Paula and family, I had the honor and great pleasure of working with Dr. Koller during my time as a senior research nurse in the leukemia department. His level of compassion for patients and colleagues alike was unsurpassed. His brillance,sound judgement, and sense of peace were only a few of his remarkable attributes. He will truly be missed. My prayers are with your family.
July 10, 2013
Paula and family – know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. It is heartwarming to hear from so many people on how Chuck changed and brightened their lives. He will be truly missed by all. “Well done, good and faithful servant!” Nancy and Gerry Frye
Joyce Martin
July 10, 2013
Dr. Koller was the most caring doctor I have ever had. I know he is the reason I am still here today. He is my hero and I will miss him greatly.
Michelle Gutierrez-Garcia
July 10, 2013
I will always remember his smile and gentle heart. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Laura Morlan
July 10, 2013
Your loss has affected me more than words can say. I hope you know how much my family and I admired you for all that you were. Paula, my heart goes out to you and the kids during this difficult time.
Paula
July 10, 2013
Dr. Koller is one of the best doctor's I have ever known. We have all lost a truly talented physician and a good friend. My condolences to his family.
Gay McCoy
July 10, 2013
It was such a joy to work with Dr. Koller at MDA for 16 years, prior to my retirement. Whether he was calling for hematology results or replying to donor search results for his transplant patients, he was always polite and brilliant. On a personal level, he inspired me and made me smile when ever I saw him bicycling to work, even after his own diagnosis. What a prince!!
Tammi Johnson
July 10, 2013
I feel very blessed to have had Dr. Koller as my leukemia doctor for the last 10 years. I'll always remember his kindness and compassion and of course his wonderful smile and ever-present bow tie!
Joseph Nates
July 10, 2013
I will always remember him as a great father, doctor, and human being. I will miss him.
Sherry Preston
July 10, 2013
You will be missed Dr. Koller! As a nurse at MDA I had the pleasure of working with you on several committees and projects, you always had patient's concerns first and foremost. You were an inspiration to many.
Sherry Shell
July 9, 2013
I was truly blessed to have had Dr. Koller as my leukemia Dr. when I was first diagnosed 17 years ago. He was always so up beat and such an inspiration to me. I have been in remission for 17 years and he is the reason I am here today. I always looked forward to my yearly check ups just to see his smile. I am truly saddened to learn of his passing, MD Anderson has lost a great man.
Rose Polk
July 9, 2013
My family was sincerely blessed to have known Dr.Koller as an intelligent,incredible,kind,and honorable physician. He made the world and those around him the center of attention with grace and love.He will be greatly missed. Our prayers are with his family.
Ed & Linda
July 9, 2013
Dr. Koller was an extraordinary physician, humanitarian and a wonderful friend to us. We will miss his fierce intellect, uncommon empathy and gentle manner. Our thoughts our with his family and colleagues as they cope with this tremendous loss.
Jessica Michan
July 9, 2013
Dr. Koller was a lovely, intelligent man. From what I saw on several occasions, he was an incredible father. He treated me like his own, almost right from the start. He is already missed.
Jessica Botticelli-Sas
July 9, 2013
Our Family was incredibly lucky when Chuck married our cousin, Paula. We shall miss you.
Jeannice Theriot
July 9, 2013
What a wonderful person. The most seamless combination of strength, intelligence, grace, kindness, and consideration. With a great depth of faith. My prayers are with him and his family.
Sherry and Chuck Sheldon
July 9, 2013
We had the privilege of knowing Dr.Koller as members of the HPD Bicycle Team. He considered being part of the team an honor, but it was our honor to have him join us. He made the world a better place.
Paula, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
July 9, 2013
We were blessed to have known such a wonderful and sweet husband, father and,friend. Anne and Stuart Coco
Maxine Berlin
July 9, 2013
Dr. Koller was one of the most wonderful people I have known. His gentle kindness and unlimited dedication. My thoughts and condolences at this sad time.
Kurt Hopfe
July 9, 2013
Dear Koller Family- my father Dieter drew strength and hope many, many times from Dr. Koller. He allowed us an extra 12 plus years with my father. He will always be remembered by us and offer these kind words as comfort for you.
Judy Stark
July 9, 2013
Paula and family. Sending prayers for you all. It has been a difficult time. cherish your memories and know that Chuck is with your Mom and Dad watching over all of you.
July 9, 2013
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Koller. His compassion and dedication helped all of our family through the rough days during the successful treatment of APL Leukemia for our son, Jason. During our final visit with Dr. Koller last December, ,we were fortunate to have spent some real quality time with this most dedicated man. He will be so missed by all. The Jason Weaver Family
Kim Brimer
July 9, 2013
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. Dr. Koller holds a special place in our heart for the kindness and compassion he showed to my mom as she has battled CLL for 18 years - A truly great man.
July 9, 2013
You will always have a special place in my heart. Praying for courage and strength for your family. Rest in peace. M.D. Anderson will never be the same for me. Angela L. Gordon-Patient
Bradfield and lindsey HEISER
July 8, 2013
We love you and admire you dearly! You are our inspiration!
Showing 1 - 67 of 67 results
Make a Donation
in Charles Koller's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for Charles Koller
How to support Charles's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Charles Koller's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
