Helen Mayme Koehler

1928 - 2021

Helen Mayme Koehler
Born: June 9, 1928 in Peru, IL
Died: October 11, 2021 in New Brighton, MN
Helen Mayme Koehler, 93, a lifelong resident of Peru, peacefully passed away Monday, October 11, 2021, at Beacon Haven Nursing Home in New Brighton, MN where she had been tenderly cared for this past year.
Helen was born to Harry and Charlotte Mauritzen on June 9, 1928, in the family home on 6th Street in Peru. Her parents were instrumental in fostering the love and passion Helen demonstrated daily, first and foremost for her family, her home, her music and her church. She was an avid gardener, creating peaceful surroundings with her flowers, waterfalls and fish ponds. She was a devoted member of First Church of Christ, Scientist in Peru since her teens, serving in many capacities, but particularly as soloist. She loved to sing and for many years belonged to a local group called the Harmonaires.
Helen married her childhood sweetheart Merle "Mac" Koehler in 1946. The young couple built their home on 10th St. in Peru, side by side, and there they remained, expanding the home as the family grew. Together they raised five children: Diane (Michael) Kastello of Hampton, VA; Mick (Pamela) Koehler of Peru; Lori (Fritz) Neuschel of Glenview, IL; Wendy (Fritz) Hurst of Wilmette, IL and Sandra (Timothy Philbin) of Chicago, IL. Her daughter-in-law and sons-in-law adored her and she was so grateful to have them in her life. Helen was also grandmother to 15 and a great-grandmother to 19, all of whom will miss her dearly.
Helen had a boundless energy for adventure and travel. She loved hiking and was a member of the Starved Rock Hiking Club. Her two-week unguided canoe trip in the back waters of the Everglades, a challenging hike of Half-Dome in Yosemite when she was 65 and a thrilling African safari when she was 88, highlight a few of those adventures.
Helen and Mac took up residence in the winter months on Sanibel Island, Florida. For 53 years this tranquil island became a second home for them, their children and grandchildren. Mom spent much of her time there collecting shells and bird watching with fellow Audubon Society members. She was an enthusiastic volunteer for over 25 years at the Ding Darling Federal Refuge in Sanibel, FL. With binoculars in hand, she served as a spotter of birds, animal life and an occasional alligator. One with nature – one with God.
Helen radiated love and will be known for her unconditional love for God and her fellow man.
She requested there be no formal funeral services. Memorials may be directed to Beacon Haven, 1200 Long Lake Road, New Brighton, MN 55112, the Audubon Society or Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel, FL 33957.