Steven James KOHN

KOHN, Steven James

Steven James Kohn, 52, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 30 surrounded by his loving family. He left behind his two daughters, Christine and Catherine; his soon to be son-in-law, Jonathan; and his beloved wife and best friend of 27 years, Gwendolyn. Born in São Paulo, Brazil on February 5, 1960, he came to the States when he was five years old with his parents, Joanne and Gaston Kohn, and two older siblings, Marjory Thomas and Richard Kohn. During his childhood he traveled many parts of the globe and enjoyed skiing in the Alps, bull fighting in Madrid and surfing in California. He had an avid love of sports, but especially for baseball, which he grew up playing. He still holds the Westhill High School record for highest on-base percentage by being hit with a pitch. He attended Tulane University in New Orleans, as well as the University of Southern California. He graduated magna cum laude at UConn where he met the love of his life, Gwen. They married and began what he would fondly refer to as "the best years of his life". He started working for the Kemper Insurance Co. in Hartford, first as a claims adjuster, then as a senior claims analyst. For the last ten years he worked for The Hartford, a part of the management team in their reinsurance division, Heritage Holdings. He was a family man who lovingly raised his daughters in their first home in Ellington and later in the house he built himself for them in Willington. He always said he had the most fun when he was with his children. He enjoyed hiking, biking and walking with his family. A talented writer, he was in the middle of authoring a book when he died. He was never one to complain and his quick wit and keen sense of humor lifted the spirits of his family during his fight with cancer. His infectious smile will be sorely missed by friends, coworkers and family members alike who were moved by his gentle soul and sweet disposition. Steven touched the lives of countless people during his time on earth, and while his death leaves a painful void in the hearts of his loved ones, it is a comfort to know that he is finally home with his beloved Savior.
Relatives and friends are welcome to join the family from 9- 11 AM on Monday, Feb. 4, 2013 at the Tolland Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Merrow Rd. Tolland, CT 06084. A Funeral Home Service will follow at 11 AM. Burial will follow at Willington Hills Cemetery in Willington. For online condolences please visit: www.pietrasfuneralhome.com.