Richard Gary Kohl

ADVANCE-Richard Gary Kohl "Rick”, Senior, Dad, Pop, The Dude, Franz Kilometer, Big Rick" Richard Gary Kohl entered eternal life on Tuesday, December 3, 2013. His spirit, legacy, and Catholic faith are carried on by his soulmate, best friend, and beloved wife; his three children, his sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, nine grandchildren, and friends from all walks of life. He lived a life of adventure, growing up in Boynton Beach, FL. He was a passionate and generous entrepreneur, who eventually moved to Gainesville, FL and then to Clemmons, NC to follow his children. He became a Knight of Columbus and was very involved with his faith. All who knew him were blessed to learn from him.

Among the many lessons we learned in his 66 years with us were: Pray for the unborn daily. Remember the Ten Commandments. It’s okay to cry at Mass, sporting events, and when talking about your children or Jesus – they are all "wonaful." Tell your children they are your oxygen and you need them. Make friends with priests. Don’t collect things – instead collect family, experiences, and memories. Sing your own songs, beat to your own drum – but do it as loud as you can. Don’t let your fears stand in the way of what others think of you – that is called "fimage." It is your duty as a parent to make sure your children attend Mass. Don’t sing the Star Spangled Banner – cry it. If you need a cane at any point in life, the ones with telescopes will serve two purposes. Every election is the most important election of your life – do your research to keep God in our government and schools. Go to confession every chance you get. Watch It’s a "Wonaful" Life every Christmas. Remind your kids constantly, how proud you are of them. Look at everyday as a new adventure. Always get a pinch on the butt from your mom before you fly. If there is not a path, make your own. Make sure you are always chipper. Make sure you thank Jesus daily. Too much of something you love is never enough, whether it is sweater vests or rosaries. There are only two teams worth cheering for – The New York Yankees and The Miami Dolphins.

I know many people would say that they had the best dad, but with all due respect, ours was the best. More than anything, he loved God and his family. He is survived by his wife, Joann Kohl; his daughter and son-in-law Michelle and Steve Cardillo and their three children, Griffin (6), Wes "Bumblebee" (5), and Nolan (2); his daughter and son-in-law Ashley and Kenny Davis and their two children, Jack "Jackie" (7) and Maggie (4); and his son and daughter-in-law Rick, Jr. and Lindsay Kohl and their four children, Isaac (10), Joey (9), Grace (6), and Eve (1); and his half-brother, Trace. He is reunited in heaven with his Mom, Pop, and Nana.

Mass with a Christian burial will be celebrated at Holy Family Catholic Church in Clemmons, NC on Monday, December 9, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rick’s honor to: Room at the Inn of the Triad (Attn: Richard Kohl Memorial Fund), P.O. Box 13936, Greensboro, NC 27415.

Always remember … Don’t let the feather fall out of your hat. God loves you and God is watching over you.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.frankvoglerandsonsclemmons.com