Kristine A. "Kris" LaHote

Kristine A. "Kris" LaHote

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Kristine "Kris" LaHote, 63, who passed away surrounded by loved ones on September 27, 2025, after a courageous, three-time battle with breast cancer. Kris approached her fight with the same fierce spirit that defined every aspect of her life.

Kris did not lose her battle with cancer. Cancer may have hastened her death, but she did not allow it to take away her life or her spirit. It's been said that "you beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and the manner in which you live." And Kris embodied these words beautifully. She lived with intention, choosing to find joy in the everyday despite her circumstances, and served as a mentor for many who were diagnosed after her. We could not be more proud of her or her resilience; she was an inspiration to many.

Born in Toledo, Kris grew up locally in Maumee where she attended school, graduating in 1979. Following high school, Kris attended the University of Toledo, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Computer Science and Production Management. Afterwards, Kris entered the workforce, where she served as a Project Manager with Dana Corporation for 28 years, before finishing out the final 11 years of her career with her beloved team at Conduit Health Partners.

Kris was an avid adventurer with a passion for all of life's pleasures. Whether she was kickboxing, bicycling alongside her husband, kayaking down the Maumee River, rappelling down skyscrapers, sailing with friends on Lake Erie, gathering with the members of her "book" club, singing karaoke or along to the live music of The Bridges or the Nu-Tones, Kris embraced every moment with enthusiasm. Her love of travel often took her to the beach, where she found solace in the sun and surf. As a self-proclaimed cheese snob and wine aficionado, Kris appreciated the finer things in life, and was known to be the first and last out on the dance floor.

Kris was a devoted wife and mother and was very involved with her children's lives and largely responsible for shaping them into who they are. She was also a loyal friend and compassionate soul. Her work with Conduit Health Partners and her volunteer efforts at the Toledo Victory Center and Aurora Project reflected her deep commitment to helping others and giving back. She found immense joy in the company of her rescue dogs, Eddie "Bear," Sparky, and Kodi, with whom she loved exploring the outdoors. Kris's love was boundless, and she was loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Kris is survived by her husband of 37 years, Larry; children, Erika and Evan (Hannah); cherished aunt, Paula Fledderjohann; sister-in-law, Lisa Coates; and beloved rescue dogs. She was preceded in death by her parents, Norval and Carol Kohlhorst; and her in-laws, Donald and Alice LaHote; as well as her Eddie "Bear."

Kris married into a family she adored, consisting of Dave (Ruth), Craig (Nancy), Todd (Maureen), and loved connecting with the extended LaHote family, including all of her nieces and nephews and their children. At holiday gatherings, she was known for making her elaborate Saran Wrap balls filled with gifts. Kris was also blessed with several different circles of friends and colleagues who were her chosen family and meant the world to her.

A visitation will be held at the Coyle Funeral Home, 1770 S. Reynolds Rd., on Friday, October 17, from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the Memorial Service at 4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family would be honored if guests who are seeking to provide something to the family would instead direct their generosity to one of Kris's two non-profits. Donations via check will be accepted at the time of her services. Otherwise, donations can be made to the Toledo Victory Center at https://thevictorycenter.org/donate/ or mailed to The Victory Center at 3166 N. Republic Blvd., Toledo, OH 43615. Donations to Aurora can be made at www.auroraprojectinc.org or mailed to Aurora Project at 1035 N. Superior St., Toledo, OH 43604.

Though we will miss her dearly, Kris's sparkle remains–a perpetual reminder of her love, her laughter, and the joy she found in every moment. Please view Kris' video tribute and leave a condolence message at CoyleFuneralHome.com.

www.coylefuneralhome.com