Edward Kohler

Edward B. Kohler, whose career in the United States Navy, dedication to the Evangelical Lutheran Church Of Our Saviour in Pompton Plains and devotion to his family only partially defined his 95 years, passed away peacefully at Mira Vie Assisted Living in Montville, N.J., on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.
Born on January 12, 1930, to Daniel Edward and Grace Kohler (Brahm) in Brooklawn, N.J., Ed grew up idolizing his dad and anticipating careers with the Pennsylvania Railroad and the Navy. He hunted with his father and enjoyed ice skating.
Ed's career with the railroad was short-lived as he joined the Navy in 1948, serving for four years during a time that took him around the world and became a highlight of his life, leading to multiple long-term friendships and endless detailed stories he told for the next 73 years.
After the Navy, where he was a Fire Controlman who earned an Occupation Service medal while serving on the USS Noa (DD-841), he was employed by E.I.Dupont and married Louise Hill in 1953. They welcomed their daughter, Jodi Grace, in 1956.
While attending Rutgers at night, Ed worked his way up with Dupont in Pompton Lakes,, N.J., and became a respected and well-liked purchasing agent at the company. For many years Ed walked to work at Dupont no matter the weather. In his time off he was an avid woodworker/ carpenter capable of building small projects as well as adding additions to his Pompton Lakes home. He enjoyed taking care of his immaculate lawn and yard, ultimately doing that type of work for others after retirement.
One of the founders and guiding forces of the Evangelical Lutheran Church Of Our Saviour in Pompton Plains, Ed worked tirelessly to maintain the sanctuary and grounds.
While not particularly known as a sports fan, that changed for Ed when his son-in-law, Rich Chere, began covering the New Jersey Devils for The Star-Ledger in 1982. Ed never missed watching the Devils on TV and switched between wearing Navy and Devils hats and shirts.
Loved by his neighbors and fellow members of the Tin Can Sailors, Ed enjoyed reading about the military and working out at a local gym into his 90's.
A private family burial will be held in Pennsylvania and a service at the Evangelical Lutheran Church Of Our Saviour in Pompton Plains. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edward, please visit our floral store.