A Legacy of Love, Service, and Unwavering Faith: Remembering Peter Vincent Koehler

It is with a heavy heart, and a profound sense of loss, that we share the news of Peter Vincent Koehler's passing. Peter, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a true cornerstone of the St. Charles community, departed this world on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at the age of 81. He had resided in St. Charles, Illinois, for many years, though his roots also reached back to Elmhurst, a place he held dear.

Peter’s life, you know, was a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of unwavering commitment to his family, deep-seated faith, and an incredible spirit of service to others. He leaves behind his dearest wife, Judith "Judy" (nee Bartoli), with whom he shared an extraordinary 59 years of marriage—a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Together, they built a wonderful life, raising three children who became their pride and joy: John, married to Christine; Michael, also married to Christine; and Ann, who is married to Timothy King. And oh, how he cherished his grandchildren! Peter, Katherine, Jack, Luke, Matthew, Michael, Emma, Ella, Henry, Charlie, Anna, Olivia, and Grace were the light of his life. And just when you thought his heart couldn't grow any fuller, he was blessed with two great-grandchildren, Theodore and Arthur, who brought him immense delight. Indeed, his family was everything to him.

Beyond his immediate family, Peter was a dear brother to Mary Beth Koehler and Paul Koehler (Kathy), and he now reunites with his late brother, Mark Koehler, and his parents, John and Mary Koehler. He was also a cherished brother-in-law to Thomas and Carol Bartoli. His connections ran deep, and he was, without a doubt, a man who nurtured relationships with genuine warmth and care.

His professional life was marked by diligence and a commitment to excellence. After proudly serving his country in the United States Army, Peter embarked on a distinguished career at ComEd, where he dedicated 35 years as an engineer and executive. But honestly, his impact stretched far beyond the boardroom. Peter was, to put it simply, a natural leader and a tireless servant to the St. Charles community, a place he loved deeply and worked so hard to improve.

One might say he practically redefined what it means to be a community pillar. His involvement was truly remarkable: from being an active member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, serving as a lector, usher, and minister of care, and even contributing to the finance committee, to his extensive work with civic organizations. He lent his wisdom and energy to the Lions Club, the St. Charles Park Foundation, and notably, he served on and presided over both the St. Charles School Board and the St. Charles Library Board. Not stopping there, he also contributed as a Trustee for St. Charles Township and, perhaps most profoundly, as the former Chair of the Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital Board, where his leadership surely touched countless lives. His dedication to St. Charles Bank & Trust Board further underscored his commitment to the local economy and its people.

When he wasn't busy shaping his community, Peter enjoyed the simple pleasures, too. A passionate sports enthusiast, he rooted faithfully for his beloved Cubs, Bears, and the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. He loved a good round of golf, and yes, he even achieved that elusive hole-in-one at Pottawatomie Park—a moment I'm sure he recounted with a twinkle in his eye! More than just hobbies, these were moments of connection, of shared joy.

Peter will be remembered for his unwavering integrity, his generous spirit, his profound kindness, and a humility that belied his many accomplishments. He lived a life guided by faith and a deep devotion to those he loved. His legacy isn't just a list of achievements; it's etched into the hearts of his family, the fabric of the St. Charles community, and indeed, in every life he touched with his genuine warmth and thoughtful leadership.

Visitation services will be held on Friday, May 24, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Yurs Funeral Home, located at 401 East Roosevelt Road in St. Charles. A Mass of Christian Burial will then take place on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, situated at the corner of Cedar and Fourth Street in St. Charles. Following the mass, a private interment will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to either Lazarus House of St. Charles or the Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital Foundation, causes that were undoubtedly close to Peter’s heart. He will be profoundly missed, but his spirit, his kindness, and his extraordinary example will continue to inspire us all.