Obituary of Robert Richardson Koehler

KOEHLER, Robert Richardson, 91, passed away on May 23, 2017. Robert was the son of Emil Theodore Koehler and Pearl Elaine Koehler. He was born in Paola, Kansas on September 16, 1925. His family moved to Tucson in 1927. He attended schools locally as well as in Bisbee. Bob, as he was known graduated from Paola High School in 1943. Upon graduation be entered the US Army. In WWII he served in New Guinea and the Philippines. Later he was recalled to active duty for the Korean War. After returning from WWII, he married Helen Phillips from Paola who was to be his wife for over 65 years. Together Bob and Helen had seven children. Both Bob and Helen actively participated in activities involving their children. Bob enjoyed being in Boy Scouts with his sons. Education was very important to him. One thing that Bob was very proud of was that all seven of his children went to college. Bob worked, and retired from Mountain Bell Telephone Company. He was assigned, and worked in Tucson and Bisbee, although his travels took him throughout southern Arizona. One time Bob was asked as to what he attributed his long life. His reply was simple, square dancing. Bob and Helen square danced for many years. He always believed that it kept you physically fit, mentally alert and socially involved with interesting people. They were members of Western Whirlers. As part of their dancing, they traveled around the country. Bob was a knowledgeable, well read person. He loved reading Louis L'Armour books. He loved being with friends, was charitable, kind, patient and well respected. Bob will be sadly missed by those who knew him. He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen; his parents, brother, Edward and daughter, Catherine. Survivors include six children, Jerome, Martha, Richard, Donald, William and Robert. In addition, bob had 15 grandchildren. Visitation Thursday, May 25, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel. Service at St. Peter & Paul Church at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 26, 2017.