Thomas Koehler

Thomas Raymond Koehler was a beloved husband, father and grandfather. He passed into eternal life on Saturday, September 30th, 2023.

Tom was born in Saginaw, Michigan on March 5, 1944 to Louis and Marguerite Koehler. He attended Arthur Hill High School, where he was a part of the swim team. Upon graduation, he attended Ferris State, Michigan State, Lawrence Institute of Technology and Wayne State University, where he earned a master’s degree in Engineering. Tom met his wife Barb at Ferris State. They married in 1966, he moved the family to the Metro-Detroit area. He worked for Ford Motor Company and retired after 30 years in 2002. He was very active, outgoing and had a love of life. His many hobbies and passions over the years included classic cars, softball, canoeing/kayaking, MSU sports, Detroit Lions, biking, swimming, marathons, triathlons, trains, working on puzzles and spending lots of time with his family. 

Tom and Barb loved to travel during their marriage. Their favorite spots were Mexico, Arizona, Florida, and they enjoyed cruises. Tom loved to build things with his hands, canoe the Huron River on the weekend and watch the Spartans on Saturday afternoons. His love of sports trickled down to his daughters and his grandchildren. He always watched the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day. Over the years, Tom would always assist his daughters with projects at their houses, whether it be installing kitchen cabinets, yard clean up, or painting a room. He also loved the many cats they had during their marriage. He loved golfing with his grandson, Chase, and attending his hockey games. He also enjoyed watching his granddaughters play tennis and volleyball. His three grandchildren lovingly called Tom “Bop”.

He is survived by his wife Barbara Jean (Chmiel), and his two daughters, Beth (Kory) Spiroff of Northville, MI and Michelle (Brian) Hamlin of Birmingham, MI. His grandchildren are Isabelle Hamlin, Chase Hamlin, and Alexa Spiroff. He is also survived by his brother, Dr. Ronald Koehler, of Bay City, Michigan, his wife, Joyce, and their children, Bob and Kathy Koehler. 

Tom was a Christian who never doubted his faith in Jesus. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. There will be a Celebration of Life planned at a later date. In honor of his memory, you may make a donation to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.