Obituary of Richard L. Kohler

Richard L Kohler, 62, died peacefully at his home on November 2, 2020 after a short, but courageous fight with leukemia. Rich was born in Syracuse, NY to the late Henry and Edna Kohler and has lived in Central New York his whole life. Rich worked for the Baldwinsville Central School District as a head mechanic for 36 years, but was best known for the love and dedication he gave to his wife, children, step children and grandchildren. Rich, Richie to some, was always ready to lend a helping hand to neighbors, friends and all who knew him. Rich Man will be remembered for camping trips, backyard parties, road trips and that time he drove his family of 7 to Florida. Rich was the dad who always said yes, helped us buy our first cars (and kept them running) and even painted a chevy blazer black and purple, per his daughter’s request. He treasured his weekly diner breakfasts with his brother Bobby and friend Ron.

Rich is survived by Kelly, his wife of 30 years and five children, Lisa (Michael) Hunter of Phoenix, NY, Nichole Kohler (Anthony) of Liverpool, NY,  Kristy (Joshua) Ryan of Phoenix, NY, James (Diane) Favata of Liverpool, NY, Joseph (Kristina) Favata of Syracuse, NY and two brothers Robert (Sherry) Kohler, Kenneth (Sharon) Kohler, in-laws Maureen and James Pekarski, Jesse (Denise) Armstrong, James (Jill) Pekarski, MaryEllen (David) Brockway, Kristen Pekarski, Robert (Jennifer) Pekarski and many great nieces and nephews. We’d be remiss not to mention his dear friend Debbie (Frank) Rollince. He is predeceased by brother-in-law John Pekarski.

He is also survived and celebrated by his thirteen grandchildren - Alicia (Tyler), Brittney (Jacob) and Zackary Hunter, Angeliena Kohler and Yahkiya Griffin, Daniel, Michael, Connor and Elliot Ryan, Casey and Myles Favata, Dominick and Brighid Favata. He was their biggest fan and could often be found (quietly) cheering on the sidelines of soccer fields, baseball fields and basketball courts as well as in the audience of dance recitals and school concerts. 

The family would like to thank their wonderful circle of friends for the outpouring of love and support they’ve received.

Services: Calling hours will be 11am to 1pm Thursday, November 5, at Tindall Funeral Home 1921 W. Genesee St. Syracuse. Private burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Warners.

Current NYS COVID guidelines requiring masks, social distancing and occupancy limits will be observed.