Marie Alice Koehler, of Akron, Ohio, passed away on May 6, 2010 at the amazing age of 100.
Marie was born and raised in Akron, Ohio and attended Heidelberg College. She spent the majority of her early years traveling as a result of her husband Henry's work with Firestone. Marie lived in a number of different states as well as several countries, including England, India and Brazil, but Akron was always home to Marie.
Marie contributed significantly to the Akron community through volunteer work as a lead flower-arranger at Stan Hywet for many years. She was also a member of multiple garden clubs, a member of First United Church of Christ on West Exchange Street, and in her later years a member of Grace United Church of Christ in Norton. Marie was also an avid bridge player and spent many years enjoying countless games of bridge at the Akron Woman's City Club and with other groups of very special friends.
Marie was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Henry and her cherished daughter, Grace Lewis. She was also preceded in death by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Kathryn Harry Hood, Edith Emmett Botkin, Grace Addis Finney, brother-in-law Wayne Petersen, as well as niece, Holly Jane Serge.
Marie is survived by her sister, Helen Petersen; son, Henry James Koehler; daughter, Joyce Merle Mollenkopf; son-in-law, Roger Lewis; grandsons, James Rebecca Koehler, Todd Gabriella Mollenkopf, Mark Katrina Mollenkopf, and great-granddaughters, Isabella and Ariana Mollenkopf, as well many nieces, nephews and extended family.
Marie was so fortunate to spend all but the last couple of months living independently in her own home. The family would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to special friend Rae South for her years of dedicated care and friendship. Marie was also able to most recently celebrate her 100th birthday at a special party attended by many close friends and family members.
A graveside service for family members will be held on Saturday, May 15th at Mount Peace Cemetery in Akron. A memorial service for friends and family will be held on Saturday, June 12, 2010 at 11 a.m. at Grace United Church of Christ in Norton, 3285 S. Cleveland Massillon Rd, Norton, OH 44203. Memorials in Marie's name may be given to the Norton Grace United Church of Christ.
Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel