Randy L. Koehler, age 66, of Merrill, passed away on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at the Marshfield Medical Center – Weston Hospital. Randy was born September 11, 1954 in Merrill, son of the late Glenn and Florian (Raasch) Koehler. He married Barbara Plonsky on August 23, 1980 in Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. She survives. Randy graduated from Merrill Senior High School in 1972. He then attended Northcentral Technical College in Wausau and earned his degree in Electrical Engineering. Randy was an Electrical Engineer at the former Marathon Electric Corporation, Wausau. Randy had a great work ethic he attained from growing up on the family farm in the Town of Scott. As an adult, Randy would do whatever research was necessary before repairing anything mechanical. His love of cars and engines, especially his 1955 Chevy, and love of Farmall tractors occupied his hobby time. Randy found solitude by spending time outdoors and in “the woods”. Randy lived to fulfill his dream of building his ‘Garage Mahal’ on the family homestead in the Town of Scott. The two story garage comes complete with recycled beams from the original barn on the property, along with heat, electrical, and plumbing. The Koehler family plans on using the garage for the ‘Celebration of Life’ following the memorial service in June. Randy’s greatest joy came from spending time with his family.
Randy is survived by his wife, Barbara Plonsky-Koehler, Merrill; his daughter, Laura Koehler (Jake Vavra) of Chippewa Falls; his son, John Koehler of Stillwater, Minnesota; a grandson, Bennett, born May 4th; his brother, Wayne (Lisa) Koehler of Marshfield; and two nieces.
A memorial service for Randy will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 19, 2021 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. The family will visit with friends beginning at 9:00 AM at church that morning. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com. Barbara, Laura, and John suggest memorials may be directed to the Cancer Research Institute or the charity of your choice.