Gerald Koehler

Koehler, Gerald

Gerald Koehler went home to our Lord on Monday, January 4, 2016 surrounded in love from his family.

He was born May 10, 1931 in Bay City, MI and was adopted by the late Theodore and Ella (Jarchow) Koehler. Gerald grew up in Matchwood Township and graduated from Bergland Community School in Bergland, MI.

Gerald and his wife Lois raised their family in Topaz, MI. He was known for his strong work ethic which he instilled in his six children. As a resident of Topaz, Gerald worked at White Pine Copper Mine, drove school bus and operated a dairy and beef cattle farm. He served as town clerk for many years. Just prior to the closing of the mine, Gerald and Lois moved their family to Wausau in 1977. He was employed at 3M for seventeen years before retiring in 1995.

He was a faithful member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Wausau. Gerald volunteered helping with the Orphan Grain Train, delivering Sunday service recordings to shut-ins and was a member of the "Back Row Gang". He enjoyed birdwatching, woodworking and had a gift for being able to mechanically fix just about anything. His willingness to help his children and neighbors fix a problem will never be forgotten. Whether it was his meticulous care for the yard or keeping the driveway clear of snow, Gerald was never more comfortable as when he was on his lawn tractor.

He is survived by six children, Theodore "Ted" (Diane) Koehler of Wausau, Robert "Bob" (Melanie) Koehler of Colfax, Gail (Jude) Trimberger of Cascade, Jeffrey (Jessica) Koehler of Green Bay, Daniel Koehler of LaCrosse, James "Jim" (Paula) Koehler of Wausau, ten grandchildren, Brian, Matthew, Andy, Roman, Angela, Emilie, Nicholas, Jeffrey, Brady, and Marley, nine great grandchildren, special friend Lynn Krause of Wausau and former spouse Lois Westlund of Rothschild.

Gerald's family would like to thank the many people who provided compassion and care when he needed it most, specifically: Herb and Lois Westlund, Joyce Crayton, Dr. Neumeyer, Dr. Richetto, Aspirus Hospice and Aspirus Hospital.

Memorial service will be 11:30 a.m., Saturday, January 9, 2016 at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 600 Stevens Drive, Wausau. Reverend Bruce Lamont will officiate. Spring burial will be in Big Hill Cemetery, town of Maine. Visitation will be at the church on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services. You may sign our family guest book at helke.com.