Harry Kohler

Harry C. Kohler, 86, of Mansfield, died Monday, December 15, 2008, at MedCentral Mansfield. Born July 4, 1922, in Orville, he was the son of Sam and Cora Jordan Kohler. A 1940 graduate of Orrville High School, Mr. Kohler graduated from the Canton Business College. He worked at the Will-Burt Company for 17 years before moving to Mansfield. In 1957 he started working at Shafer Valve as Treasurer and upon the death of Jack Shafer, Mr. Kohler was elected by the board to be President and CEO where he remained until his retirement in 1987. He was a member of the Linden Road Presbyterian Church where he served on the finance committee and was a former member of the Elks Lodge #56. He enjoyed gardening, traveling and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Surviving are his wife of 68 years, Irene Ryan Kohler; a son, Jerry Kohler of St. Petersburg, FL; two granddaughters, Natalie Andy Bell and Julie Bill Harless all of Mansfield; three great grandchildren, Emma Ann and Kara Nichole Bell and William Harless; sister, Margaret Edris of Massillon; several nieces and nephews; and good friend, Charlie Campbell of Mansfield. He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant son, Harry; a granddaughter, Amy; and a sister, Betty.

Friends may call from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, December 18, 2008, at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road, Mansfield. Funeral services will be 7:30 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home conducted by Pastor Robert Hauser. Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Friday in Crown Hill Cemetery, Orrville. Memorial contributions may be made to the Linden Road Presbyterian Church or to the Salvation Army.