Donald Edward Kohler

– Donald Edward Kohler, 68, died Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2014, from pancreatic cancer surrounded by his family. Don was born April 25, 1946, to Michael and Eva Kohler in Missoula. He attended Missoula schools until he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he was a jet engine mechanic.

Don was a multi-talented man with so much knowledge about so many things – auto mechanics, electrician, carpentry, plumbing, welding, logging and so much more that he has passed on to his children. Don's greatest accomplishment was building our family home from digging the basement to completion while teaching the family along the way. Don's greatest joy was his family.

Don was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 1999 and finally had to retire because of the pain in his joints. He loved to go hunting with the family and the camping and fishing trips to the lakes were a great time for all the family.

Don was preceded in death by his mother and father; brothers, LaVerne, Norman, Kenneth and James; and sister, Jeannette. Don is survived by his wife of 36 years, Laurie, at the family home; daughters, Sandi (Rob) Willig of Seeley Lake and Desiree (Matt) Bennett of Covington, Washington; sons, Kenneth (Caitlyn) Kohler of, Missoula and James Kohler of Frenchtown; and grandchildren, Stephani and Justin Buzar.

The family wishes to thank Partners Hospice, Dr. Westphal from the V.A., Dr. Ann Corsi and Dr. Rob Stenger for all their help and support through this horrible battle. A donation can be made in Don's name to the American Cancer Society, Arthritis Foundation or Veterans Wounded Warrior.

Cremation has taken place. The family would like to invite family and friends to the Orchard Homes Country Life Club at 2537 S. Third St. W. at

2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, for a memorial and potluck dinner
Read Donald Kohler's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.