William L. Koehler, of Antigo, died Thursday, October 13, 2011 at his home under the care of his family, caregivers and LeRoyer Hospice. He was 83 years old. He was born on November 21, 1927 in Antigo, WI a son of the late William and Frances (Fleischman) Koehler. He married Jean Heckman Koehler on September 20, 1948 in Fond du Lac. She survives

Mr. Koehler served in the United States Army from 1946 to 1947 in the 11th Airborne Division stationed in Sapporo, Japan. For 37 years he was employed by Chicago & Northwestern Railroad as a fireman and an engineer.

He was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church and the Leland Tollefson Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2653, Antigo.

He enjoyed playing cards, telling stories, hunting, fishing in Alaska and Lake Superior and spending time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife, visiting much of the United States and Canada as well as parts of Europe and to China.

In addition to his wife survivors include two sons, William (Barbara) Koehler, Stevens Point and James Koehler, Green Bay; four grandchildren, Rachel Koehler, Stevens Point, Matthew (fiancé Kristin Spranger) Koehler, Oshkosh, Lindsey Koehler, Green Bay and Ryne Koehler, Green Bay.

He was preceded in death by an infant son, Kerry Koehler; sisters, Elsie (Mike) Losser and Ruth (Bruno) Mackiewicz; and an infant brother and infant twin sisters.

A funeral service will be held on Monday at 11 a.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church with Reverend John Czarnota officiating. Antigo veterans will conduct military rites at the church immediately following the service. Visitation will be 9 - 11 a.m. on Monday at the church.

A special thank you to Mr. Koehler's caregivers Bill and Terry.

Services