Obituary of Mary Ann Koehler

Mary Ann Koehler, age 59, of Wisconsin Rapids, entered into eternal life Saturday evening, December 20, 2014, surrounded by her loving family. Mary Ann was born on March 14, 1955 in Stambaugh, Michigan to Richard and Jean (Dalpra) Odgers. It was in this close-knit Italian community that she developed her gregarious personality, her amazing cooking skills, and her boundless love for her family. For her, the kitchen truly was the heart of the home. She married Dennis Koehler on October 15, 1977, in Escanaba, MI. Their 37 years of marriage were blessed with four children. Their journey together brought them from the UP, to northern WI, to Washington State, and back. Mary Ann's small stature belied her oversized personality and enormous heart. Quick with a smile or to lend a helping hand, her generous spirit and genuine warmth made her fast friends with everyone she met. Full of life, energy, and enthusiasm, she always had time for friends, be it a quick haircut or conversation over coffee. Her greatest joy came from time spent with her family, especially her grandkids, who affectionately referred to her as "Nonna." She will be missed dearly by all who knew her. Mary Ann is survived by her husband, Dennis "Buzz" Koehler; children: Todd (Lynn) Koehler of Wauwatosa, Juliana (Jeff) Jagla of Verona, Kelly (Mike) Brandenburger, of Denver, CO, and Chad Koehler, of Kaukauna; grandchildren: Ayden, Braxton, and Camden Jagla, Gia and Brody Brandenburger, and Preston Koehler; mother, Jean Odgers; brothers, Rick (Barb) Odgers, Neil Odgers, Kevin (Toni) Odgers, Damon Odgers, and Scott (Amy) Odgers. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Mary Ann was preceded in death by her father, Richard Odgers, her sister, Janie Odgers and her nephew, Josh Odgers Nelson. Visitation will be on Friday, December 26, 2014 at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home and Cremation Center from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday, December 27, 2014 at St. Bronislava Catholic Church beginning at 10 A.M. until the time of services at 11:00 A.M. Memorials may be made in Mary Ann's name to the Colon Cancer Alliance.