H Robert Kohl

Born in Lebanon, Pennsylvania on November 6, 1932, Bob was the second son of Roy and Helen Kohl. He graduated from Myerstown High School where he played basketball and the trumpet. Bob earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees in Civil Engineering from Penn State University.

He married his first and only love, Claire Kohl, who preceded him in death. Bob and Claire were married for 63 years and are survived by their six daughters, Kathy (Steve) Andrew, Karen Fields (Bill Fanning), Sue (Jeff) Stidham, Linda (Randy) Buckles, Mary (Rick) Schafer, and Christy (Ryan) Loerzel as well as eighteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Bob also loved his many nieces and nephews, as well as sisters-in-law, Terry Luksic and Bernadine Luksic, and brother-in-law, John Luksic.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James Kohl, and loving niece, Deb Kearse.

Bob served in the Air Force at Clark Air Base in the Philippines. It was there that he met and married Claire, who was also stationed there as a nurse. It was a match made in heaven. When asked when he knew she was his bride-to-be he said, “The first time I kissed her.”

In 1994, he retired after twenty years of employment as Director of Utilities at the Reedy Creek Utility Company at Walt Disney World. It was there that he implemented many innovative projects that are still practiced today. Prior to working at Disney, he was a building contractor who built apartments in Orlando, and before that, worked as a city planner in Solon, Ohio.

He loved spending time with family and always put them first. From early morning swim team carpooling to playing tennis, Bob was an active and involved father who relished every chance to playfully tease and pull jokes on unsuspecting targets. He made up nicknames and songs for his children and grandchildren, making each of them feel special. Through his example, Bob taught his girls to love unconditionally, show compassion, and be friends to all. He was a role model and father figure to many.

As a faithful member of Annunciation Catholic Church in Longwood, Bob served as a Eucharistic Minister, and gave his time and talent to the bereavement ministry. He also volunteered at The Sharing Center, raising money for those in need. Bob left a legacy of love, humility, and service which will live on through his family. He will be greatly missed!

A Memorial Mass was held on Friday, November 11, 2022, at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, 861 Maitland Avenue, Altamonte Springs, Florida and was followed by a private interment.

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations in Bob’s name to The Sharing Center, 600 N. US Highway 17-92, Suite 130, Longwood, FL 32750.