Edward Kohli Obituary

Edward C. Kohli

Edward Allan Kohli passed away Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Willow Ridge-Frieda House in Bluffton, Ohio. Edward was born in Findlay, January 4, 1935, to Edward and MaRoa Kohli. He graduated from Findlay High School in 1953 and later served in the U.S. Army in Frankfurt, Germany, as a military policeman. Edward loved basketball and baseball and excelled at both.

On May 12, 1957, he married the love of his life, Janet Bright. They celebrated 63 wonderful years together before Janet's passing in 2021.

He is survived by three children, Carole (Mark) Petersen of Wauseon, John (Kira) Kohli of Bluffton and Barbara (Steve) Scott of Pandora; eight grandchildren, Michael (Annie) Gill, Stephen (Rachel) Gill, Jayden Kohli, Owen Kohli, Kizer Young, Stella Young, Myah Scott and Taryn Scott; and seven great-grandchildren.

Edward was preceded in death by a son, Chris Kohli.

In 1965, Edward and Janet moved to Pandora, where they became active members of St. John Bible Church. Edward spent his entire career as a self-employed brick and stone mason, and examples of his craftsmanship can be found throughout Findlay and the surrounding communities. He also combined his gifts for ministry and masonry around the world, helping to build churches and projects that equipped and supported missionaries in their work in Africa, Alaska, Romania, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic.

Edward served joyfully in his local church as both an elder and a teacher. He devoted much of his free time to Bill Glass Prison Ministries and Gideons International. His life was filled with music, especially from the piano, and art, including the cherished paintings created by his son, Chris.

As an only child, Edward delighted in being surrounded by people, his children, eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, his work crew, and his church family. He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his deep desire for others to know and love God, and his genuine love of life.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Bridge Palliative and Hospice and to Mennonite Home Communities of Bluffton for their excellent care.

Edward's service will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at St. John Bible Church, 15988 Road 4, Pandora, Ohio 45877. Pastor Paul Perkins officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the church and one hour prior to service Wednesday.

Memorial gifts can be made in Edward's honor to St. John Bible Church – Missions.

Condolences may be expressed to family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.

Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services, Bluffton, is honored to be providing services to Edward's family.