Shirley Mae (Houk) Kohler
Aug. 8, 1930 — Nov. 21, 2004

Shirley Mae Kohler, 74, of Spring Hill, FL, formerly of South Bend, passed away at 11:45 a.m. on Sunday, November 21, 2004. She was born on August 8, 1930, in South Bend, to Charles and Goldie Houk. On November 4, 1950, she married Gustave J. Kohler.

Along with her loving husband, Gus of 54 years, survivors also includ one daughter, Nancy (Pastor Stan) Dudka and their children, Nicole and Bryce; three sons, Chris (Janine) Kohler and their children, Rachel and Matthew; Guy (Cindy) Kohler and their daughter, Kirbea; and Jeff (Virginia) Kohler and their children, Shane, Jordan, Ryan, Alex and Jocelyn. They all reside in South Bend. Also surviving are one sister, Carol Lee Longley of South Bend; and one brother, Richard Houk of Bradenton, Fla. Preceding her in death besides her parents are one sister, Imogene Scrogham, and one brother, William O. Houk.

Shirley liked to keep busy and worked most of her life as an accountant and administrator. She was passionate about her family, gardening, reading and people. She touched the life of many with her wit, opinions, counsel and humorous outlook on life. In her earlier years, she was a singer with a local band, and on a local TV show, and recorded a couple records. Now she is singin' with the saints! She battled cancer while here but now she is safely home. Safely Home I am home in Heaven, dear ones; Oh, so happy and so bright! There is perfect joy and beauty In this everlasting light. All the pain and grief is over, Every restless tossing passed; I am now at peace forever, Safely home in Heaven at last. 

A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 4, 2004, at New Life Christian Fellowship, 54700 Fir Road, Mishawaka, IN. Pastor Stanley Dudka will officiate. Friends may visit with the family from 11:00 to 1:00 p.m. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, it is Shirley’s request that memorial contributions be made to Hospice of St. Joseph County, Inc., 111. Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637; or to New life Christian Fellowship, 54700 Fir Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

Sources: Ancestry.com and Newspapers.com

01/12/2024 EJS