Joseph Ernest Kohten, 88, passed away in the early morning of Monday, March 19, 2018 in Jacksonville, Florida. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Kohten; daughters, Jody Reilly and Melanie Timmerman; and son, Joe Kohten. A true family man, Joseph is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Sean Reilly, Meghan Carroll, and Eric Timmerman; and great-grandchildren: Finora Reilly, Deirdre Reilly, Jacob Reilly Floyd, and Carly Jo Floyd. His family will miss his presence and valuable insight into dealing with the difficulties of life in a Christian manner. Joseph was a devout Catholic, graduating from Saint Paul’s High School in 1949. He was an active member of Saint Paul’s Riverside, serving as an usher for many years as well as rising in ranks through the Knights of Columbus. He was a well respected Grand Knight and dedicated Faithful Navigator during his time with the Knights. He willingly served his country in the United States Marine Corps for over a decade. He continued to serve as a member of American Legion Post 137 and was in the color guard for many years. Invited into the prestigious 40 & 8, Joseph served as the National Treasurer for the Nurses Training Program within this organization. In addition to serving his Church and his Nation, Joseph served the young through his work as a Troop Leader in the Boy Scouts of America. He truly lived “God, family, country” throughout his life. Joseph is preceded by his daughter, Annette Kohten and his sisters Margaret Brunson and Regina Jones. A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 22, 2018 at Hardage-Giddens Edgewood Chapel from 6-8pm, rosary to begin at 7pm. A funeral mass will be held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 2609 Park St., Jacksonville, FL 32204 on Friday, March 23, 2018 at 11am with interment at Riverside Memorial Park. HARDAGE-GIDDENS EDGEWOOD CHAPEL729 S. Edgewood Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32205 is serving the family.
