Elizabeth “Liz” “Betty” J. Koehler of Weyauwega, age 86, died on January 3, 2023.
She was born February 14, 1936, in Appleton, the daughter of Elmer and Elda (Neuman) Reinert of Larsen. She lived on a family farm between Winchester and Zittau. She graduated in 1954 from Winneconne High School. She attended St. Peters Lutheran Church in Larsen, near her home. In that church she married Duane “Dewey” Koehler September 4, 1954. They moved to Weyauwega, where she worked at Farmers & Merchants bank for nearly two years, until Keith was born followed four years later by Kristine. When they started school she went to work at Skelgas in Weyauwega, where she told the boys daily where to go. She worked there until retirement.
She enjoyed bowling, golfing, embroidery, water aerobics, reading, travel, baking cookies and potato tortes, and sewing neck tie pillows. She loved nature of all kinds and “naked” trees, especially. She bowled with ten girls from Weyauwega and Waupaca, traveling to national and state tournaments, and Dewey was considered part of the team. She loved going up North to Camp Mishike, traveling to AAL Conventions, cruises and bus trips. Her last cruise was to Alaska to celebrate her 50th wedding anniversary. She was treasurer of American Legion Auxiliary Unit #176 of Weyauwega for many years, and also served as President.
She is survived by her husband, Duane “Dewey”, two children, Keith (Zofia) Koehler of Lexington, VA, and Kristine (John) Knight of Cary, NC. Four grandchildren, Katherine Koehler, Alex (Jennifer) Koehler, and Greg (Casey) Koehler and Elizabeth (Andy) Greene and two great-grandchildren, Naomi and Merritt, her sister-in-law Judy Reinert, and multiple nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, John Reinert of Larsen, and an infant brother, Elmer, Jr. She spent her final years at Bethany assisted living.
She wishes to thank Bethany for the wonderful care and help in the years she lived there. There will be no services at this time. Donations may be made to the Humane Society of Waupaca.