Obituary published on Legacy.com by Woodlawn Funeral Home - Mount Holly on Jan. 20, 2026.
December 9, 1942 - January 19, 2026
Belmont, NC – Robert Marshall Koehler, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 19, 2026, at the age of 83. Born in
Meadville, PA, Bob was known for his inquisitive mind, and devotion to his family and community.
Robert, affectionately known as "Bob," spent his early years in
Meadville, PA, before the family relocated to North Carolina where his father was employed by Talon Zipper Company in Stanley, North Carolina where Bob also completed his education. Following his graduation from Stanley High School, Bob pursued higher education with fervor, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from NC State. His passion for learning led him to further his studies with graduate work in Nuclear Engineering at NC State.
A dedicated professional, Bob enjoyed a distinguished career as a Nuclear Engineer with Duke Power, where he worked until his retirement. His expertise and leadership were highly valued by colleagues and community alike.
Bob proudly served his country as a 1st Lieutenant in the Army, while stationed in Nancy, France. His time in the military was marked by a deep sense of duty and patriotism for our country.
Beyond his professional achievements, Robert's life was rich with varied interests and talents. An enthusiastic member of the NC State Glee Club during his college years, he never lost his love for music, sharing his voice as a dedicated member of his local Lutheran church choir. An artisan at heart, he found joy in creating beautiful stained glass pieces and was passionate about genealogy, often weaving tales of family history during cherished camping trips with loved ones.
Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Pat Koehler. Together, they built a loving family and enduring legacy. He will be profoundly missed by his children, David Koehler (Angie), Maria Carr (Scott), John Koehler (Misty); grandchildren, Cody Koehler (Madelyn), Madison Pratt (Caleb), Catherine Carr, Molly Koehler, Matthew Carr, Emily Koehler, Leah Koehler, Justin Koehler, Danielle Bowman (Chase), Ryder Bowman, Chloee Ballard and Rylee Ballard and the numerous nieces and nephews who brought him endless joy. Bob also leaves behind his siblings, Bill Koehler (Rita) and Jeanne Young, who cherished him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley Wilson Koehler and Vera Louise Flaugh Koehler, whose love and values shaped the man he became.
Bob's life will be honored with private services. The family will host friends for a reception on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 2:30 pm to honor Bob's Life. The reception will be held at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Comforter, 216 N. Main Street,
Belmont, North Carolina 28012. Woodlawn Funeral Home of Mount Holly is serving the Koehler family. His presence will be eternally missed, but his legacy of love, kindness, and service will endure in the hearts of those who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The Lutheran Church of the Holy Comforter in Bob's memory, celebrating a life well-lived and a spirit that will forever inspire.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert Marshall Koehler, please visit our floral store.