Obituary of Dorothy Anne Marie Kohler

In Loving Memory of Dorothy Bremer Kohler
January 11, 1930 – May 6, 2025

Dorothy Bremer Kohler, a longtime Voorheesville resident and devoted member of New Scotland Presbyterian Church, passed away on May 6, 2025, at St. Peter’s Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. She was 95.

Dorothy was born in Astoria, Queens, to Ernest and Emma Bremer and spent her early childhood in the city before moving to the family farm in Gilboa, NY—a place she would always call her true home. Life in Gilboa shaped her gentle spirit, deep curiosity, and quiet strength. She blossomed there as a thoughtful student, a gifted poet, and a reflective writer, graduating as salutatorian from Gilboa High School. Throughout her life, Dorothy carried with her the humble wisdom and grace rooted in her country upbringing.

Dorothy trained as a nurse at the Memorial School of Nursing in Albany and took great pride in her calling as a registered nurse, devoting herself to the compassionate care of terminally ill patients in their homes. In 1950, she married Lewis Kohler, and in 1956 they made their home in Voorheesville. There, in a house lovingly built by her father, brother, Uncle John, and Uncle Dick, Dorothy and Lewis raised four children. Within those walls, she created a home filled with warmth, kindness, and quiet strength—a place where everyone felt truly seen, heard, and cared for.

Dorothy instilled in her children a deep appreciation for family and their country roots, nurturing connections that spanned generations. She ensured they remained closely tied to their extended family, creating a rich tapestry of shared traditions and lasting memories—from joyful days on the Bremer farm to cherished gatherings with the Kohler family. Many of their friends found a second home in the Kohler household, drawn in by Dorothy’s unwavering kindness, quiet wisdom, and openhearted hospitality—values she passed down through both word and example.

Dorothy’s deep faith was evident in her 60 years of devoted service to New Scotland Presbyterian Church. She taught Sunday School, guided the Youth Fellowship, and became beloved for her generous spirit and unforgettable cooking at countless potlucks, semiannual church dinners, and both local and regional Kiwanis gatherings. Her service extended well beyond the kitchen.  She faithfully held many leadership roles, including that of Elder, always offering a joyful heart, a steady hand, and a deep sense of purpose rooted in faith.

Later in life, Dorothy returned to her love of writing. She joined a writers’ group led by Dennis Sullivan and eventually published her own book, Remembering Friends and Family. She cherished these creative connections and shared her stories generously.

Dorothy’s ability to cultivate deep connections throughout her life, even in her final years, was truly remarkable. Her presence wasn’t just noticed—it was felt. From Gracie’s Kitchen to local senior events, she continued to draw people in with her warmth and humor well into her final years. Even in a short stay at Schuyler Ridge, she left an imprint on those around her.

Dorothy leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering grace. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

She was predeceased by her parents, Emma and Ernest Bremer; her brother, Ernest O.J. Bremer; her husband, Lewis E. Kohler; and her son, Stephen Kohler (Cindy Speanburg). She is survived by her children: Van Kohler (Lynn), Richard Kohler (Joan), and Wendy Kohler; her grandchildren: Daniel, Emily (Jon Curkendall), Erin, Amy, Stephen, Jackie, and Eric (Mikayla Papp); and extended family, including Gale Kohler and Donna Gray.

Calling hours will be held at Reilly & Son Funeral Home in Voorheesville on Wednesday, May 21, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. A Celebration of Life for Dorothy will take place at New Scotland Presbyterian Church on Thursday, May 22, at 11:00 AM. A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family on Friday, May 23, at 11:00 AM at Gilboa Rural Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Dorothy to New Scotland Presbyterian Church, 2010 New Scotland Rd, Slingerlands, NY 12159: https://www.newscotlandpc.org/