Edward Koehler Condolences and Tributes - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Condolences and Remembrances

in tribute to

Edward Koehler

Compiled from newspaper and Facebook web pages, and other correspondences. (Most of these entries were transferred from HERE)
Friends are welcome to contribute additional comments at the bottom of this web page.
From the Pensacola News Journal site
February 06, 2011
There was nothing Eddie couldn't do better, with less effort, than the rest of us
~ Mark,
Pensacola, Florida

Ed will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched. My husband and I were blessed to have him a part of our lives the last few years he lived in Pensacola before moving to Jacksonville, [additional comments from an e-mail: ] when we were having massages at the school where he taught. We always talked with him and shared our thoughts about his students afterwards. He really cared about his students and wanted to know how they were doing. ... He became a friend...we even celebrated his birthday in our home with supper and a birthday cake before he left for Jacksonville ... he was such a caregiver and a nice person. He will be missed by many people whose lives he touched (literally and figuratively)...
Bob & Elizabeth
~ Elizabeth Cook,
Pensacola, Florida

I did not know him, Ed Koehler, but was so touched by the beautiful poem posted with his eulogy by you Mr Lein. It brought me to tears as I think about how much love there was between you and how much he will be missed. May you be comforted to know that you will see him again in the light. 
~ J. Logan Marquess,
Pensacola, Florida

Dawn, Michael, Dion, Bobby, Eric, Coleman, sorry for your loss.
~ Howard Leonard,
Seminole, Alabama

I am so sorry to hear of your brother's passing. I will keep you in my prayers.
~ Mac Willis,
Pensacola, Florida


February 07, 2011
I'm so sorry to hear of your uncle's passing. You all will be in my prayers.
~ Paula Hoover,
Pensacola, Florida

I am sorry for the loss for all of you. I only met him once but he was a kind man. Thank You Ed for sharing your heart and all the accomplishments of Ed K. He touched many lives with kindness and happiness. I am sure he is greatly missed.
~ Tricia Larrabee,
Jacksonville, Florida

Dion, Bobby Eric and Cole, sorry to hear of your uncle Eddie's passing. I know you all loved him a lot. God Bless you all and I love you all.
~ Roberta Baker,
Steinhatchee, Florida

February 08, 2011
Claudette and family and Ed L-- I am so sorry and sad about losing Ed. He was a very good friend for 24 years. I miss our daily emails where we alternately shared our thoughts and traded insults. We made each other laugh and I can only hope he's entertaining angels now.
~ Sandra Isaacson,
Las Vegas, Nevada

January 11, 2011
Ed: You captured Ed's character, charm, his self-contained, larger-than-life spirit. A poised and elegant commemoration befitting a consummate individual. After thirty years, I am so thankful I got to be in his inimitable presence again, if for only a day.
~ Jost Van Dyke

So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
~ Debby Lowry Ford

What a wonderful person. You are in my thoughts and prayers. There really aren't words.....but you have my best feelings.
~ Judy Wade

What a wonderful tribute to a beloved friend. I wish I had known him, Ed. So very sorry for your loss.
~ Debra Cramer Anderson 

Ed....that was a beautiful tribute. I am so sorry for your loss...Please let me know if there is anything I can do....
~ Ron Block

What a beautiful tribute. I am so sorry for your loss.
~ Jaime Freeman Sanborn 

 I'm so sorry for your heartbreak. He sounds so accomplished and a wonderful spirit.
~ Patricia Fitzgerald Vingoe

The man was a miracle ... he was 99.9% good ... he is missed deeply.
~ Judith M. Manning 

Ed, I wish I had known him but feel that I have been given a glimpse of him through your words. Beautiful. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
~ Donna Ownby Peretzman 

 I am so happy that I got the chance to meet him at your Open House. Even on so short an acquaintance, he really made an impression on me. My deepest condolences.
~ Heather Campbell

Ed, I'm so sorry for your loss.
~ Scott Adams 

My heart is breaking for you - and for him. What a remarkable man! I hope you can still feel him with you and be comforted by his energy and love. Thank you for sharing such a beautiful tribute with us.
~ Sharon Hastings Jaskula

January 12, 2011
Ed- I remember Ed from FSU. Sorry for your loss, and I wish I'd had the chance to know him better!
~ Jackson King 

I regret not having known him, and am so sorry for your loss, Ed.
~ Read Gainsford 

What a terrible shock, Ed. I'm so sorry.
~ Jerry Reynolds 

Ed, I am so sorry for your loss. Your tribute to him was beautiful. Thanks for sharing it. With deepest sympathy.
~ Jean Ulmer Brinkman

Oh, Ed, I am devastated. I had so much fun with both of you on New Year's Day. What a wonderful man, and a loss to us all. I grieve with you. If there's anything I can do for you at all, you have only to ask.
~ Kathleen Brunner 

That was a beautiful tribute. Brought a tear to my eye. I am so sorry for your loss, Ed.
~ Robert J. Moseley 

I am really sorry for your loss, Ed.
~ Jason D. Neely 

Ed will be greatly missed, not only by his human friends and family, but the foxes and otters in the wild kingdom outside your back door...I will never forget that he immediately recognized my superpowers and crowned me "BitchWoman." He was a lovely and perceptive man. Thank you for sharing him with us.
~ Stacey Van Hoy 

Sorry for your loss! Your tribute is very moving. I wish I had known him!!
~ Carol O Smith

January 13, 2011
Thanks so much for sharing your tribute with us-it was beautiful.
~ Julie Paquette McNeil 

I am so sorry for your loss, Ed. He sounds like a wonderful man. I'm sorry I never got a chance to meet him.
~ Karen Walker Hardin 

You are in my thoughts and prayers.
~ Linda Ehnert
January 14, 2011
Karen and I can't check Facebook often right now. Both of us are in shock and our brains are frozen over this news. We will be in touch.
~ John Jessee

Additional Messages
(with the more personal/private bits edited out)

January 8, 2011
I'm so sorry to learn this news. I enjoyed meeting Ed and spending time with you both in your home. Please let me know if I can do anything for you.
~ Susan E. Pardue   

January 9, 2011
Sorry to hear about your friend passing...stay strong and upbeat...love you bro.
~ Constance Wilkes

I just heard from Margaret Koscielny... I’m sorry for your loss and please accept my condolences.
~ Piotr Szewczyk

How shocking and tragic. I loved meeting him last New Year, I loved seeing your joy together and your beautiful home. Please know you are surrounded by great affection and love because of who you are and how you have cared so deeply for us. Blessings.
~ Christine Clark

January 10, 2011
Larry and I are still reeling from this news. Even though we hadn't seen or heard from Ed in a few years we knew he was out there in the world and we'd hook up again eventually. It makes me so happy you and he reconnected though clearly you were never totally unconnected. Thank you again for contacting me. I can't say that enough. For me, one of the hardest parts about losing someone to death is that they just aren't where they are supposed to be anymore. You go to the phone to call them and they aren't there. I'm saying this badly, but please know that I am so very sorry for you most of all.
~ Bonnie Benge


 Oh, Ed, I am in shock . . .  He was a true gift to me at a time in my life when I had a hard time embracing myself. He was one of the smartest, funniest, kindest, and most ethical people I ever knew. I am deeply sorry for your loss. Most times, those FSU days seem like another lifetime, yet right now I remember him cutting my hair for a six pack, being my confidante, playing tennis after work, sneaking in a card in the catalog for "Monster Fat Cow Belly" for "Montserrat Caballe" just to make me laugh, coming along with me to the Monastery in Conyers, GA to help me make field recordings and to play recorder in a room with a 6-second tone decay rate, all like it happened last week. I miss the idea of him.
~ Mary Root

 Sad news indeed.  Thank you for taking the time to find me.  Although we had not spoken since his return to Florida, I appreciate knowing.  I still work at SirsiDynix with many of his old workmates, so I will let them know as well.
~ Darren Lauber

I Am So Sorry for Your Loss, You Have My Deepest Sympathy.
~ Susan Hoyt Wilkes
I was saddened to hear the news about Ed K. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
~ Gretchen E. Mitchell

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Ed. He will truly be missed.
~ Chaquita Powell

Oh, Ed, I'm just heartbroken. I did love him & can't believe he's gone. I'll write more when the shock has settled -- Love to you and Claudette -- Pat
~ Patricia Bingham-Harper

I am dunderstruck! Ed K was always so understated in his humor (which made it even more funny and sometimes scathing) that I adored him from the first time that we met.  Knowing how much I am saddened to hear of his passing, I cannot begin to contemplate how devastating this must be for you, after so long an association.  You have my condolences.  You are so loved and have so many friends to gather around you that I hope will provide some consolation at this time.  Let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
~ Richard Singletary

You know Ed was always going to do things his way. His exit choice was so typical.  No muss.  No fuss...his anger at 911 being called is Ed all over.  I'm glad you were home.
Selfishly I wish he had stayed around longer.  Who will ever talk plants, share seeds, cuttings, and recipes like he did?
I will miss his enjoyment of bubbly and all the accompanying laughter.  Red noses from the three of us were shining in photos from my visit. 
Know that he loved you and your support for him. Love, Sandra.
~ Sandra Hancock

January 11, 2011
My heart is breaking at the loss of my friend. I can only imagine how you must be feeling. Just wanted to stay in touch. I know how much Ed cared for you. I will always have the fondest memories of that crazy old fart. I imagine he probably told you lots of crazy wild things about me. He was such a dear friend, wonderful colleague and extraordinary teacher. My love goes out to you and to all of his friends that had the pleasure of sharing time, space, love and energy with EDK.
~ Tunie Harris

I just want to offer my condolences...Ed was such a cheerful person, and he will definitely be missed!! I'm holding fast to the afghan he knitted (smile)!!
~ Jacqueline Curry

My thoughts are with you.
~ Mark Hohnadel

I am so sorry for your loss.  I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
~ Crystal Chase

So sorry to hear -- such a shock! Thinking of you.
~ Theresa Rooney

Holding you in our prayers.
~ Christa Snow

So sorry for your loss.
~ Francesca Roccosalvo

I am very sorry for your loss.
~ Matt Taylor

Ed was always so kind and funny when I saw him -- I'm sorry for your loss.
~ Greg Royce

With deepest sympathy and prayers, Ed. Take care.
~ Eric Soriano

My deepest sympathy.
~ Trudy Hill

January 12, 2011
I worked with Ed K in UT and was in contact with him for many years.  He was a supportive, interesting friend.  I just now learned of his passing.  I am sorry for your loss.  It was a loss for all of us.
I appreciate your giving me the link to the tribute page.  It was beautifully written about a beautiful life.  You can imagine how much I missed what had been our daily communications.  He always said he didn't want to get old and dependent, but he left us much too soon.
~ Linda Walke

What a BEAUTIFUL Tribute! My heart was just absolutely breaking as I read it. As I read, I remembered so many things I had forgotten and love about him. Thank you for sharing. I am so sorry that you have to go through this and only wish there was something I could do. If there is anything I can help you with, or do for you, please let me know.
~ Dion Leonard-Baker

I am very sorry for your loss. Please let me know if I can help out in any way...even if you just need a shoulder.
~ Kema Parker Sagrada Roseberry

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss.
~ Shaun Bennett

I'm so sorry to hear about Ed's death. I used to work with him at the Salt Lake County Tech Services Dept., and he was a great guy.
~ Cathy Marchant

Thinking of you through this difficult time of pain and loss.  Friends come in different forms, but they are everywhere and their hearts help keep us aloft.  In shared sorrow,
~ Sassi Forden

Please know that my deepest and most heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of great sadness.  If there is anything I can do, do not hesitate to let me know!
~ Celeste Brown

Ed, My heart is with you. I know you are devastated, exhausted, filled with many thoughts, yet reassured by the beauty in Ed and in your admirable relationship. I am forever touched by the time and sincere care I shared with you and Ed Koehler.  Allow yourself whatever you feel, even when it is numb. Love,
~ Linda Butner

I couldn't find any words of comfort that would ease your sorrow and pain in any of the cards...so these words are from my heart. Those whose lives you have touched and who have touched yours will always be a part of you.  Even for so short a time that memory will be a treasure.  Please keep in touch and if you ever need something I can do please let me know.
~ Carol Brown-Tipton

I read [the tribute] last night. Beautiful.  I wish I had known him better. I had plans for that. He seemed much loved. Maybe I'll hear it from you.  I hope so.
~ Louise Warren

Eddie, What a wonderful memoriam you wrote for Ed. He was a very accomplished person but so warm and giving also.  George and I both liked him and I know he'll be sorely missed. Love you.
~ Diane & George Lewis

January 13, 2011
Eddie, What a wonderful tribute to Ed.  I have printed this to keep at home. I really liked Ed.  I never knew all that he had done in his life and your tribute let me know him better.   Ed was a really nice guy & I really enjoyed him when I visited you.  I am so sorry.  Just let me know what I can do. Love you.
~ Donna Pieper

Hello Eddie, As time passes your pain will subside.  It isn't a cure but a thought to keep close, then soon you will find a way to live with the loss.  This is how I dealt with the loss of my daughter Tricia.  May love stay in your heart.
~ Billy Stratton

I wanted to tell you how sorry I am for your tremendous loss. The tribute you wrote for Ed is beautiful and poetic. How is it he was able to do so many things? Know that we are thinking of you and wishing there was something we could do to help ease the pain.
~ Karen Pommerich

He most definitely lived a full life and made sure he enjoyed it.  Savor those thoughts, Ed. He was smart enough to understand that God gave us a beautiful world and he appreciated every bit of it. Many never do. Many never even "see" it, let alone hear it, see it, feel it, taste it, touch it.  He gave every sensory mechanism to grasping the gifts of God to all of us. He "got it"...
~ Roberta Thomas

Ed, I’m so sorry to hear of your beloved friend Ed’s passing. What a beautiful tribute you posted. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Ed I know from your tribute he was a wonderful loving person to many. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
~ Vickie Bliss

Lana and I extend our deepest condolences to you. When Lana called me after school today, I broke the news to her and she gasped, "Oh, no, Mommy! He was so nice! He was so nice! I'm supposed to go back to their house and he's going to introduce me to the animals! I'm heartbroken!" I concur with her feelings and words. Although meeting him only once, I knew I was in the presence of a man with a great and loving spirit. I am sorry I did not know him better. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers as I know how difficult this must be. ... Rely on the wonderful memories of your time with Ed to help sustain you.
~ Lisa Buggs

My thoughts are with you.
~ Vivian Browning

I just read your memorial to Ed. It is beautiful. There were many things about him that I did not know or possibly had forgotten. I do remember the incredible photos he took while in Utah and how professional they were...just one more way in which he was talented. More importantly, he always made me feel that I was in some way special and that was a gift. Please let me know if there is anything I can do or if you just need/want to talk. God bless.
~ Jan Swygert Linden   

Elissa and I were so sorry to hear of Ed's passing. We enjoyed getting to know you both at your home last New Year's Day 2010. I thought of you this year as we gathered with friends and hoped that you had your black eyed peas and collard greens.  We regret that we did not have another opportunity to spend more time with Ed.  Your memorial page is wonderful and lets us get to know him a little better.  All the best through this difficult time. Much love,
~ Betsy Federman

I am so sorry for your loss.  How fortunate you both were to have time together and happiness in the home you shared.  Sad as you may be, you are rich with memories. Let me know if you need help with anything.
That's a very beautiful composition, Ed.  It captures his spirit, strong and gentle, as I knew him.  Of course, we met under the best conditions, at your house and a party!  You wrote a lovely tribute to him.
~ Joan Blaylock

January 14, 2011
I did not know, and I am shocked and so very sorry.   What an unspeakably cruel blow this is.
Your tribute is beautiful. Of course, you had much inspiration from him. I hope it comforts you to realize that surely, because of you, these last years were wonderful for him.  With deep sympathy,
~ Elizabeth Walters

What a shocker! Your friend looked like he was in fine health. I am very sorry for your loss. I offer my sincerest condolences.
Life is one big puzzle isn't it?
~ Andy Barmer

Deeply sorry for your loss. However, just remember the good memories that you had with him. It's been 10 months since my mom passed away- still grieving. I'm happy though that she's in good place now with my dad and brother.
Ron and I have been thinking and praying for you. Take care and God Bless.
~ Lilia Simonton

Ed, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Remarkable man. Lifting you and the family up in prayer.
~ Karren Deas

I am so very sorry to hear your news - please accept my deepest sympathy. Take good care of yourself and let me know if there is anything I can do to help. [--from 1/10/2011]
Thank you for sharing this Ed; the poem is quite lovely.  And now I know why those receptions after the concerts were so tasty!
~ Barbara A.B. Gubbin

My Prayers are with you.
~ Paul Votaw

You are in my prayers.
~ Pat Morrison

My prayers are with you.
~ Karen Lewis

Losing someone we love is never easy; however the memory of them and their legacy will always be with us.
~ David Fuller

My condolences.
~ Raymond Neal

My prayer and thoughts are with you.  God bless.
~ Yai Webley

Ed, So sorry to hear of your loss.  My sincerest condolences.
~ Kathleen Krizek

Sorry for your loss.
~ Jeff Geiger

"Warmest thoughts are with you in caring and sympathy."
~ Cranston Burney

Eddie, I am so sorry for the loss of Ed. The tribute to him was wonderful. Obviously he was a very talented and caring person.  Thanks for sharing this with me.
~ Cyndi Long McIntosh

Ed: I'm so sorry to hear about Ed. I was just looking at some pictures of us when he visited me in Boulder in the early 90s. Over the years I've wondered how he was doing and was glad to read your biography of him. The memories I have of Ed and our friendship will stay with me always. I regret that we lost touch.
I'm happy to know that you both ended up together and I am very sorry for your loss.
~ Phyllis Holzenberg

January 15, 2011
Ed, I am so very sorry to learn of Ed's passing. I know he meant a great deal to you. Ed seemed like a wonderful, caring person, and I certainly will think fondly of him. If I can do anything for you, please let me know.
I'm glad to know that Ed was comfortable and happy during this period. He deserved that and more.
Both of the Ed's are in my thoughts.
~ Trey Shelton

My deepest sympathies and condolences are with you. I enjoyed meeting him and making his acquaintance. The "Stone Mountain" coffee mug you both gave me is now in my desk at West Regional, and I'll think of him whenever I use it.
~ Erik Larsen

Thank you so much for the e-mail about Ed.  I really enjoyed his company. I will miss him.
~ Peggy Glasnapp
January 17, 2011
I am so sorry to hear/read of your loss. Your tribute to Ed was quite moving, and though I didn't know him (gosh, I really only know you through FB!), it's obvious that the world is diminished now that he isn't with us. Take care of yourself, sir.
~ Bob Moore

Ed, I cannot believe what I just read.  How can it be that Ed is gone?  I simply can’t get my brain or my  heart around this.
I’m so glad that you got to spend the past few years together.  It seems only right that “Ed and Ed” were together again!
All my love, Carole.
~ Dr. Carole Clifford

What a beautiful memorial to Ed. The earth was blessed to have such a talented and kind person here, even if it was for such a short time.
~ Susan Derrick

January 18, 2011
I am so sorry to hear the news.  I have been thinking about both of you.
~ Erica Brown

You are in my prayers.
~ Arthur Finley

I know that no words can really touch the private side of grief.  But know, from both Jim and me, that you are in our thoughts and have our lasting friendship.
~ Michael Shell

Ed, So sorry to hear about your loss.  I will be in Jax next month & hope to see you then. Fondly,
~ Laura Kline

So very sorry to hear of your loss, Ed. My thoughts are with you.
~ Margaret Gloag

Ed - My condolences for your sudden loss. I'm keeping you in my thoughts.
~ Matthew Moyer

January 19, 2011
John Rivest sent the link on your web site regarding the Obit for Ed K. and I was shocked to say the least.  He was such a delight to visit with and be around.  The obit you presented was thoughtful, sensitive, informative and above all filled with fondness and love.  Something everyone took away whenever they were around him.
One of my fondest memories of his unique personality occurred one Halloween back in Tallahassee.  I went in for a hair cut and there he was in his bumblebee costume, I thought I'd die laughing.  His creativity with any of his endeavors was astounding. 
Doug K. and I visited when he was in Salt Lake City on our way to Montana and Wyoming.  That visit was so pleasant that I continue to have fond memories.
Take care and again thank you for being such a good friend to Ed.
~ Doug Bechtol

Eddie, "Wishing you strength and comfort at this sad time." Sorry for your loss.
~ Laura & Jeff Kendall

Please accept our sympathy for your loss.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
~ Phil and Melonee Slocum

January 20, 2011
I just called a friend with whom I was at Mich. State (Solveig Steen, wonderful pianist). She had met Ed here [in Mobile] when she visited while he was living here and taking the beauty course, and we all three had a wonderful trip to New Orleans. We rode the trolley along St. Charles Ave., ate, went all over the place. Anyway, she remembered him fondly, as everyone does. She had been here again, when my sister, Anna, and her husband arrived for a visit, and seeing how bored she was with Glenn (Anna's husband) especially, I asked Ed to take Solveig to Bellingrath Gardens (which we both loved) and he told me later, she had admitted to being, "Sa BORED" with Glenn. Ed got quite a laugh out of that.
~ Frank Imbragulio

January 21, 2011
I was so very sorry to hear about Ed.  I was very fond of him ... It must have been such a shock to you.  You are in my thoughts and prayers. In sympathy,
~ Sue Spencer (& Pete)

Ed, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Joan Blaylock and I talked last night about how much we enjoyed meeting Ed the year before last at your New Year’s gathering and we both regret not getting to spend more time with you two this year. We were also both so taken with his warmth, graciousness, and kind heart. Joan also went on and on about all of his impressive activities and accomplishments. So, thank you so much for opening up your home and telling me about what has happened.
~ Mia E. Clark
January 22, 2011
That was a beautiful tribute for Ed. John shared it with me and it was beautiful!!!
~ Karen Beutman

What a beautiful, moving memorial you wrote for Ed.  What a marvelously talented man, in all pursuits.  And sweet, and funny.  I wish I had gotten to know him better.  Could have used a massage :}
~ Barbara Kiersh

Ed, I am so saddened to hear about Ed K. and am thinking of you during this difficult time.
~ John Rivest

January 25, 2011
... I know all of this is very difficult for you.  I am having trouble myself accepting the reality of him being gone.  All my life he was off somewhere--DC, New York, Utah, and I would see or talk to him occasionally.  I still have that feeling that he is still there.
~ Claudette

Dear Ed, I am so sorry to hear about your loss.  I really care and would like to help any way I can. Please call me any time--day or night--if you need to talk.  You are in my thoughts and prayers.  With love and sympathy,
~DeLon Rowan

"Thinking of you and hoping you will find comfort in special memories."
~ Henson Markham

"With warm thoughts and heartfelt sympathy at this time of loss." Sincerely,
~ Lynne Libow Jaffe
January 30, 2011
Ed, I am so sorry.  When you said you had lost a family member I imagined the loss of an elderly parent, something that comes to almost all of us at some point.  I did not imagine this.
I remember meeting Ed ... I remember some funny remark he made about how he reduced his LP collection (in a flood?).
Your tribute to him is a moving one.  Thanks for sharing that with me.  His not wanting a memorial service suggests a selflessness that also suggests that the last thing he would want is for you to suffer.  So do that for the other Ed and don't suffer too much.
~ Steven Kruer
February 1, 2011
Oh Ed, I'm so sorry to hear about Ed.
~ Jane Harvey

February 5, 2011
I am so sorry to hear of Ed Koehler's death.  The passing of a dear friend is such a hard thing to endure.  The tribute you created for Ed was beautiful.  When my husband passed away, it was painful but I also considered myself blessed because he had been part of my life.  I hope you feel the same way about Ed.  A good friend is truly a blessing.
~ Patti Frye
February 6, 2011
It is with great sadness I learned of Eddie's passing.  I grew up with Eddie.  He was a year ahead of me at Tate, but we were always doing things together, be it in the band, in the Escambia orchestra, or socializing.  In college, I  formed a woodwind quintet, and Eddie played flute.  He auditioned for the Navy Band not long after I was in it.  He jogged back then as well.  I remember him knocking on our apt. door after breaking both arms during a morning run.  We lost touch for a long time, until a few years back, when I was running with my running club at a local 5K, and there was a voice behind me, asking if I was me. We ran a few days a week together, until he vanished to Jacksonville. ...  Eddie was unique.  There wasn't anything he couldn't do better than most of us, with less effort.  
~ Mark York
February 7, 2011
Ed, what a beautiful painting of my Uncle's life... I know you are someone very special to him. Thank you for sharing...
~ Dawn Leonard
February 9, 2011
My name is Patricia, and Frank Imbragulio is my uncle.  I just read your tribute to Ed Koehler and thought it was wonderful.  I met Ed while he was in Mobile living at an apartment complex that I believe was called the Haystack or something like that.  Ed was an extraordinary person, full of wit, fun and knowledge.  I am fortunate to have known him.
~ Patti Fisher Simmons
February 12, 2011
Alan Brady passed along the news of Ed's unexpected passing. I am jolted back to those too few days in Tallahassee when I was privileged to spend time with the two of you.  Both of you were kind, inspirational, patient and generous to the green but enthusiastic kid I was then. My heart and thoughts are with you.
~ John Martin

February 14, 2011
I am going to call him Mr. Koehler--I am now 58, but it is out of respect you see.  When I was a Senior at Escambia High School he was my music teacher, music theory as a matter of fact.  He was intelligent, captivating and young so all of the class loved him.  We had class in the band room, it was great fun.  To make things even better, he rented a house on Kirk Street right around the corner from my childhood home.  My mother was renting the property to help friends.  I will never forget when he saw me and my mother at the front door of our home he exclaimed, "Oh my God, she must be your mother, you look just like her."  That has always stuck with me because everyone said I looked like my father.  I remember he was so respectful and nice my mother loved him.  I would sometimes go around the corner to see him, unannounced of course, and he was always so gracious.  Good memories.
     When I graduated in 1971 I remember him saying he was going to join the Navy and play in the band.  It made perfect sense to me.  As a matter of fact, as the years went by and the band was on TV I would often look for him.
     Many times I have wondered about him.  I was so thrilled to read of the very productive and wonderful life he led.  So versatile and bright,  I am not surprised.  I wish I had known he was back in the area for awhile.  It would have been nice to get to know him as a "grown up."
     The poem you included at the end was of great solace to me, it touched my heart and soul.  Then it occurred to me how wonderfully strange life is, here I am getting a word of comfort behind the death of a loved teacher I knew 40 years ago. How wonderful life is, going in circles as it were, giving and receiving along the way.
     My mother is 91 and vividly remembers Mr. Koehler.  She was very touched by the heartfelt eulogy you  wrote.  I also wanted you to know that he helped foster in me the great love for music I have to this day, it is a very important part of my life.  I have always said that music is so powerful, it makes you forget or it helps you remember.
     I hope what I have said is meaningful to you and his family.  The journey of grief is not an easy one.  I hope you have a good support system.  My heart goes out to you as you begin the journey.
~ Cathy Wilson
February 20, 2011
I'm glad you entered the bio and obit at that site <http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=65256518>. Thanks. The sadness hasn't gone away. There's a great big empty place where he used to be in my heart and mind.
~ Sandra Anick Isaacson

I got to know Ed through Sandy Isaacson when he would make the occasional visit to Minnesota - I had no idea he had done so much ... I'm glad you were able to have the time you had together - he was truly a unique individual... though a bit confusing at times...
I'm so very sorry - but I know there are no words I can say to make it better -- and even time doesn't always do it. When someone is that much a part of you, there's not much that can fill it or mend what's now gone. Yes - you'll get through it -- and yes - you'll be a different person in many ways. But, I suspect, direction will come.
~ Martin Swalboski

I loved your tribute to Ed; so moving. Thank you so much for sharing Ed with us all. I never knew so many of those details about him. I knew he crocheted, gardened, hair styled, massaged, fluted, ran and navyed but never the details or how it all evolved!  He was always so secretive and private.  I still get angry when I remember that he is not out there in the world.  This could not be, this should not be.  Hope you are starting to grieve less and remember good times more, though the grieving never really ends does it?  I cherish all my great memories of Ed.
~ Bonnie Benge

February 27, 2011
I read [these] all and smiled at some remembrances. I wish he was able to see how he made people feel or think of him. He always seemed to think he was so insignificant, yet he accomplished so much and touched so many. I outright laughed at the thought of him dressed as a bumble bee! I miss him so much.
~ Sandra Anick Isaacson

Ed was my former student, who became my assistant, who became my friend and colleague and who, then, became my teacher. There aren't enough words to express the loss that I feel. I, too, wish that he could see the outpouring of love from people who knew him! See ya on the Veranda, my friend!
~ Tunie Harris

March 2, 2011
I did [take comfort in reading these condolences].  I just can't seem to compose anything myself. What's to say?  I cried all the time I read them.  Maybe later.
~ Richard

Ed, I'm so sorry for your loss.  Ed had that special ability to recognize and appreciate what was unique and special in everyone he knew. I will sorely miss that about him, along with his other wonderful qualities.  I can't imagine what you've been going through, Ed.  Let me know if there's anything I can do, or if you just want to chat.
~ Chris Schappals

March 9. 2011
Thanks for sending the link on Ed.  He seems like he was really an impressive man.  My prayers and thoughts are with you.  I know it is so difficult when someone you care about so much passes.  Thank you for sharing his life story with me. I hope you are finding solace knowing that he lived a full life and you had a chance to share some of that with him.  My sincerest sympathies.
~ Carolyn Antman

December 7, 2011
(Originally posted on Facebook)


Bookplates applied to a collection of gardening ⇒
books given to the Jacksonville Public Library by 
Margaret Koscielny in memory of Edward Koehler.

Besides the gardening reference, the Bernstein song title has other significance--Ed played recorder (and had a spoken line!) in a production of Candide at FSU in the late 70s or early 80s.
Patricia Bingham-Harper: Love it! I saw that show lo those many years ago. RIP dear Ed.

Bonnie Benge: Ed had so many gifts! Though I knew him for many years I realize I never knew that much about him (by his design, I'm sure!). Thank you for keeping him alive. He's very much like a snowflake!

Ed Lein: Ed indeed was talented in so many different ways. But he never just talked about "himself" unless you asked him about something in particular, or it somehow supported something somebody else was doing. I knew him for 30+ years and lived with him for about half of those, and I only found out shortly before he died that he used to do watercolor painting. I still can't accept that he's gone.

February 16. 2012
I was just watching the New York Symphony and thought, “I wonder if that flutist could be Ed.”  So I googled his name and was stunned to read that he passed away almost a year ago.  Ed and I were best buds during our time together at South Alabama.  We went to Broadway shows and symphonies together or just hung around the music department together.  What I remember the most was his laugh – high, lilting, genuine.  I still have a psychedelic birthday card that Ed made for me.  He was one of a kind and my life feels emptier knowing that he has gone.  I’ve tried to find him over the years, but couldn’t – what a shame that we have owned a condo in Orange Beach since 1996 and are there several times a year. Again, please accept my condolences for your loss.
~ Gloria Waters Burnett

October 31, 2012
(Originally from a Facebook entry)
This coleus plant is one Ed K. got sometime around 1977, when an organist friend of his, Betsy Mixon, asked him to take care of it till she got back from Germany. He never heard from her again, but he had kept the plant going all these decades. I tried, unsuccessfully, to save cuttings last winter. I took this picture yesterday, of what came up on its own from where he had transplanted some cuttings in the spring of 2010.
~ Ed Lein
John Rivest: Sweet.
Judy Wade: What a sweet present
Kathleen Brunner: Beautiful
Peggy Glasnapp: Really Pretty, I was just thinking of Ed yesterday while going through pictures on my computer.
Sassi Forden: The man undoubtedly had a touch. I miss him so much. Entirely appropriate that the plant is showing off for his birthday. Much love to you.
Debby Lowry: Beautiful


July 5-6, 2013
(Originally from a Facebook entry)
Watercolors by Ed Koehler
Looking for some crayons, I went through a box of Ed's maked "Art Supplies." Inside a spiral-bound pad I found several watercolor paintings by Ed that I'd never seen. The monthly art display at the Library for July is for work by Library staff and our families, so I framed two of them for the show. I promised Claudette I'd take pictures, but I couldn't get past the glare. Only one of Ed's paintings was dated--1987--but I found out, after I submitted them to the Library, that these two and most of the others were probably painted a decade later, after Ed had moved back to Pensacola. The day before he had the stroke, Ed and I were chatting, and he was telling me about some of his childhood friends, and how he had taken watercolor lessons from the mother of one of them. I had assumed that the lessons had been during the "early years," but Dale Hudson told me that Ed showed him some of the paintings after he started the lessons in the late 90s.
~ Ed Lein
Dawn Leonard: Very nice ...
Peggy Glasnapp: He was so accomplished, I am so glad I got to know him. Thank you Ed for sharing.
Rob Tudor: Wow. I never knew this. I'm inspired.
Heather Campbell: Stunning!
Bonnie Benge: Ed is one of the most secretly amazing people. just when I think I knew him something new and suprising pops up. You really do honor his memory everyday.
Larry Workman: I think I'm still mad that he's gone. Thanks Ed for this post . .
September 17, 2013 
Thanks so much for sharing this, Ed. The tribute page was very touching and reminded me of the amazing sense of humor he had and his great generosity of spirit. He will be missed!
~ Thom Elsberry
October 31, 2013
(Facebook Remembrances)

He did love Halloween... And recycling - one year as a busy bee, 2nd year as a killer bee, 3rd as a queen bee ...
Patricia Bingham-Harper: How well I remember that stinger! Missing him still.

Barbara Kiersh: So funny. This is a great picture. He is missed.‪

Doug Bechtol: I miss him too! To this day I laugh every time I think of him dressed as the Bee at work. Loved the platform shoes too.

Bonnie Benge: He cut my hair dressed as a killer bee first year I met him. Reckon he & Belushi are hanging out? Happy birthday, Eddie Eddie Eddie Eddie.

Sassi Forden: I'm so glad you shared this, Ed Lein, I love it and I am forever grateful for the things he brought to my life.


October 31, 2013
(More Facebook Remembrances)
Thanks for sharing this beautiful musical tribute to Ed.
He is missed.
~ Lynne Jaffe‬

I am sorry I didn't get to know him.
~ Judy Wade‬

A very special man. Gone much too early.‪
~ Kathleen Brunner‬
January 8, 2014
It doesn't seem like it's been three years. Thank you for all the beautiful ways you have honored Ed's memory. Love you,
~ Claudette
October 31, 2014
(from a Facebook entry)
Michi was our friend & co-worker at the FSU library - I learned yesterday that this kind a sweet soul passed on earlier this week. She was from Japan and moved to the USA after WWII with her GI husband. She never lost her Japanese accent but joked that when she visited Japan her family would tease her about how Southern she sounded.~ Ed Lein
Sassi Forden: Of course I thought of Ed Koehler today and missed him even more than usual. He was one of a kind and I am thankful that he blessed my world with his special self. I am with you today as well, Ed Lein.

Patricia Bingham-Harper: I remember Michi so fondly too -- a sweet and lovely person. I never celebrate Halloween without thinking of Ed, too - missing the Killer Bee.

Lisa Brown Buggs: My thoughts are with you, Ed.
November 2, 2014
Allow me to offer my very late, but still heartfelt condolences, Ed.
~ Brian Moses
January 8, 2015 (Facebook Remembrances)
A great tribute!
~ Tracey Johnson Teevan

Uncle Eddie ... we had some good talks ...
~ Dawn Leonard

What a beautiful tribute for a brother who LIVED his life. My heart hurts for you.
~ Leah Painter

Beautiful tribute. Thinking of you.
~ Rebecca Poyner

Praying for comfort for you.
~ Renee Preston 

Just beautiful!!! Sweet memories to ease your pain ...
~ Beverly Bracken Williams

This is so beautiful, Ed.
~ Kema Parker Sagrada Roseberry
January 8, 2015
(from a Facebook entry)
Ed Koehler at the Warren D. Allen Music Library at FSU (early 1980s)

Lovely photo. Eddie was a handsome guy.
~ Phyllis Holzenberg

When I scrolled down and saw this picture, it took my breath
~ Bonnie Benge

What a beautiful photo of Ed!
~Lisa Brown Buggs

Stunning
~ Janet Scott

I just want to call him and find out how things are going.
~ Larry Workman
January 9-10, 2015

(Facebook Remembrances)
I remember Ed. He gave me my first and tightest perm I've ever had. After a week of wearing it, he straightened my hair and then cut it. He was so nice!
~ Vivian Rivera Hanes

Thinking of you, Claudette. Miss you much.
~ Vicki Hare Dettling

Wow....what a beautiful tribute. Gives insight to his sister, and nieces and nephew. Didn't know the talent was so deep. So sorry for you loss!
~ Sandra Downs Cook

Lovely Memoriam for your irrepressible "Bro", Claudette. You are in my thoughts. Miss you!
~ Gale Koewing

That is one fine man in every way. I know you miss him so.
~ Bonnie Benge

I watch this each time you post it & it never fails to bring tears to my eyes. Still hard to believe his shining spirit is gone.
~ Patricia Bingham-Harper

Magnificent. And wonderful glimpses of a man I adored. I loved this man a great deal and it was fun to see him through the years... I still miss him a lot.
~ Sassi Forden 

What a lovely tribute.
~ Sydnee Hill.

Miss his jokes. Enjoy those memories! Prayers for you, Claudie. Love you.
~ Denee Rudd

What a legacy. 
~ Karabelle Karabelle

I use stuff he taught me almost every day
~ Rita Kraus Allen (in a note to Sassi Forden on Facebook)
January 19, 2015
I remember him, what a great guy....so funny too.
~ Sue Ann Flanders

August 25, 2015
Ed and I were roommates in college from summer 1969 until his graduation the following year. He was a great inspiration to me and someone to genuinely look up to. I think of him often and smile. He had a great sense of humor. He is fondly missed.
~ David Collier
May 20, 2017
Hi, Ed. I ran across your obituary of Ed Koehler this morning, and I write this with a lump in my throat. I had not known of his passing.
Ed and I became acquainted at the library at FSU when we were both MLS students. He then followed me to Utah to work for Dynix. A couple of the pictures in your moving photo montage were taken by me, I believe. I'm very glad that you reconnected and I hope lived happily. Ed stands out in my memory as a solid and sharing friend. My best to you, Ed, and thank you for the memories.
~ Dave Strickler
May 25, 2021
I met Ed when I was working on my undergraduate degree in Music Composition at FSU. He volunteered to cut my hair, which was always very wayward, and was the first person to suggest that my little "fuzzy caterpillar" mustache would benefit by some dye! As a recorder player, we were in the Early Music Ensemble, and he also played recorder in a chamber work by a good friend of mine, for which I played harpsichord. I have always wondered what became of Ed, and I am greatly saddened to finally have found out that he passed, ten years ago.
~ Brady McElligott
December 27, 2022
We watched your tribute to Ed Koehler, and enjoyed the music and photos. I looked through my album and could
only find two of Ed with me outside the Bahn Thai restaurant in Tallahassee. I think Mary Root made the photos.

~ Dixon Withers-Julian


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