John Robert Wohlers

Bob was born in Benton Harbor, Michigan on January 13, 1943, to John D. and Kathryn “Kittee” Wohlers. In his younger years, his family lived in several states, moving frequently for his father’s work. After Bob graduated from Collegedale Academy in 1961, he attended Walla Walla College, where he met his beautiful bride, Earlene (Parmele). They wed on August 30, 1964. Their honeymoon was spent travelling to Loma Linda University in California, where he graduated in 1968 with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Bob and Earlene were married for 58 years and spent their entire married lives serving in various sectors, locally and around the globe.

After dental school, Bob served in the US Navy Dental Corps, stationed at Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, serving from 1968-1972, honorably discharged with the rank of Lieutenant Commander. He then moved with his young family to Tokyo, Japan working for the Tokyo Adventist Sanitarium Hospital from 1972-1974. Bob started his private practice in Mossyrock, Washington in 1974 and ended his dental career in Chehalis, Washington, retiring in 2015. “Doc”, as he was affectionately known by his staff, patients, and the community, continued to serve in his retirement, volunteering with Earlene for 6-months at the Seventh-day Adventist Dental Clinic in St. Kitts, as well as serving at free dental care clinics for the underserved across the United States.

Additionally, Bob loved to play his trombone, touching many with his talent of making beautiful music. He mentored the students at Lewis County Adventist School in the band program and looked forward to his time each week playing music with the students. He found purpose in serving at the Chehalis SDA Church in various volunteer positions and at the Union Gospel Mission. In his early career, he entered politics, serving as the Mayor of Mossyrock from 1979-1983. Upon their arrival in Mossyrock, Bob served in several church leadership positions, being instrumental in starting the local Adventist School in Morton, Washington. He had a “knack” for working with computers, often preparing digital media presentations for church services, and managing the church website. Bob delighted in leading the Men’s Prayer group where he formed treasured friendships.

In his early years, Bob spent his free time with his family outdoors, boating, skiing, biking and exploring Lewis County. He loved to spend time on the golf course with Earlene. As a computer and electronic “junkie” he had an extensive collection of various cords, which were never thrown away, just in case someone needed one.

Bob is remembered by many for his generous heart. Without complaint, he never turned down a call for help, which included middle-of- night dental emergency calls. His laugh was memorable and welcoming - his smile unforgettable. He loved his children and grandchildren and was very proud of each of them.

Bob was predeceased by his father, John D. Wohlers and his mother, Kathryn “Kittee” Wohlers. He is survived by his wife, Earlene Wohlers. His brother Bill Wohlers (Rita) and his sister Karen Boulton (Michael). His children Wendy Kleppe (Kurt), Nikki Kiger (Doug) and Jeremy Wohlers (Hilary). His Grandchildren, Karl Kleppe, Nathan Kleppe, Riley Huff, Cassi Kiger and Max Kiger.

Memorial Service will be held at the Chehalis Seventh-day Adventist Church on March 31, 2023, at 4:00PM. 120 Chilvers Road, Chehalis, WA 98532. Live Stream: https://www.youtube.com/user/ChehalisSDAChurch. The Burial Service will take place at Pioneer Cemetery in Lincoln City, Oregon on April 1, 2023, at 1:00PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Lewis County Adventist School Building Fund. Bob held LCAS school close to his heart and felt strongly about its success. www.lcas.org (Scroll down to find Donate / Note: Bob Wohlers’ Memoriam) or mail checks to: LCAS 2102 S. Scheuber Road, Chehalis, WA 98532.