Herb Kohler Jr. (1939–2022), Kohler Co. billionaire and golf patron

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Herb Kohler Jr. was the former CEO of Kohler Co., known for their plumbing products.

• Died: September 3, 2022 (Who else died on September 3?)
• Details of death: Died in Kohler, Wisconsin at the age of 83.
• We invite you to share condolences for Herb Kohler Jr. in our Guest Book.

Family legacy

The Kohler Co. was founded in 1873 by Kohler’s ancestor, John Michael Kohler. Kohler began working in the family business as a teen, gaining experience in every division of the company as he worked as a laborer or technician. He took on a full-time role after graduating from Yale University in 1965 and was appointed CEO in 1972. During Kohler’s time as CEO, the company focused on design, bringing in a new wealth of choices in colors and styles. Kohler led the company until 2015, when he turned the reins over to his son and became executive chairman. A golf enthusiast, Kohler added four golf courses to the company’s assets during his years as CEO, all located in the company’s home state of Wisconsin. Among them was Whistling Straits, which has hosted a number of high-profile PGA tournaments. He had a small role in the 2003 movie “Open Range” alongside his friend, Kevin Costner.

Kohler on his love for golf

“The set of values associated with the game are what I find very meaningful. A fair number of my best friends now come from the game of golf one way or another. But it’s a strange thing. You wonder why. Why is it all these people have become good friends late in life? Somehow it’s that set of values that underlies; they’re just very high quality people.” —from a 2012 interview for the USGA

Tributes to Herb Kohler Jr.

I’m saddened to hear about the passing of Herb Kohler today! He’s done so much for golf in Wisconsin. He made it possible for @RyderCupUSA to bring the cup back home! That was for you Herb! RIP pic.twitter.com/70n2VemLrC

— Steve Stricker (@stevestricker) September 5, 2022

The Marquette community mourns the loss of Herbert Kohler Jr., chairman of @Kohler Co., which has been a strategic partner to Marquette University for over a century. We extend our prayers and condolences to Herb’s family and friends as they celebrate his life. pic.twitter.com/UijTcAiaRV

— Marquette University (@MarquetteU) September 4, 2022

Sad to hear of the passing of Herb Kohler. A gracious host of the 2020 @rydercup at one of his life’s great accomplishments, Whistling Straits. Just a lovely man who left his mark on life and the game of golf. RIP

— Padraig Harrington (@padraig_h) September 4, 2022

NKBA offers its deepest sympathies to the Kohler family and KOHLER for the passing on Sept. 3 of Herb V. Kohler, Jr.,…

Posted by National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) on Monday, September 5, 2022

So sorry to hear of Herb Kohler’s passing. He was a visionary who positively impacted the lives of many. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. https://t.co/qxBMSNsCQ6

— Senator Ron Johnson (@SenRonJohnson) September 5, 2022

Herb Kohler was an inspiring man to work for. He lived the mission of Kohler Company. He will be missed for many reasons.

Posted by Craig Magalen on Sunday, September 4, 2022

It cannot be said enough how Herb Kohler changed the game for golf and majors in the state of Wisconsin. I was glad he got to see his Ryder Cup dream come true. My prayers are with his family and thinking of all the laughs we had over the past 25 years #RIP pic.twitter.com/4LpqSuayTO

— Lance Allan (@lanceallan) September 4, 2022

Thank you for the special memories, Herb Kohler. ♥️#PGAChamp pic.twitter.com/Tlxf0mnQud

— PGA Championship (@PGAChampionship) September 6, 2022

Full obituary: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel