Darlene L. Koehler's Obituary
Darlene L. Koehler, 88, passed away on Saturday, July 5, 2025 with her family by her side at Silverado Memory Care in Lees Summit Mo. Darlene was born September 24, 1936 in Craig, Nebraska, to Sherman and Dorothy (Hogan) Mallette. She married Edwin Koehler on July 24, 1955 and they were married for 65 years until Ed's passing in 2021.
Darlene earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from Pittsburg State University and spent over two decades teaching kindergarten and first grade at Lincoln Elementary in Pittsburg.
She was a member of the First United Methodist Church and active in the community, volunteering at the Wesley House food pantry, Habitat for Humanity, and as a reader at KPRS for the Audio-Reader news service for the blind.
In retirement Ed and Darlene enjoyed polka dancing, traveling, fishing, gardening, and playing cards with a lively group of friends they met at Barto's restaurant.
Those who knew her will remember her sense of humor, her work ethic and seemingly endless energy, her baking skills, and her love of children, animals, nature.
She is survived by her daughter Dorothy (Steve) Compton of Lake Winnebago, MO, three grandchildren; Anna Compton, Aaron (Caitie) Compton, Dr. Will Koehler, and two great grandchildren, Eila and Wade Compton.
She was proceeded in death by her parents, husband, son Bob Koehler, brothers Daniel (Jo) Mallette, Calvin (Jean) Mallette, and sister Dorothy (Lyle) Davis.
A private graveside service was officiated by her longtime neighbor and friend, Rev. Jeanine Blessant.
Memorial gifts may be made to Habitat for Humanity, c/o St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 306 W. Euclid, Pittsburg KS.
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