Barbara Barb Lynn Kohl

Waterford- Barbara Lynn Kohl, 63, of Waterford, died in her home on August 22, 2011. Barbara was born May 8, 1948 in Bayshore, NY, daughter of Robert and Gertrude Kohl Sr. She earned her BS from Buffalo State University, and continued on to attain an MA from Southern Connecticut State University, and an MS from Connecticut College. A 40 year resident of Waterford, she worked for 27 years as a Speech/Language Pathologist for the Waterford Public Schools.

Living as a quadriplegic for 17 years, Barbara served as a beacon of hope by remaining independent and continuing to work. She inspired everyone with her drive to live a normal life, especially her students with disabilities. She challenged society’s rules for individuals with disabilities by advocating for disability education and rights, and received one of the country’s first Freehand Systems—a surgically implanted electronic hand. A passionate woman with a love for politics and current events, she lived for two things: her daughter and her work.

Ms. Kohl is survived by her daughter Carrie Czerwinski of Waterford, her brother Robert Kohl Jr. of Brightwaters, NY, and two nephews: Robert Kohl III of NY, and Ralph Kohl of VA.

A Memorial Service will be held at All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church in New London on Wednesday, September 7, 2011 at 4:30. Please visit www.fultontherouxnewlondon.com for photos, tributes, flowers, directions and more service information. Because her life was changed by her service dog, Culver, donations may be made in her memory to Canine Companions for Independence.