Harvey Gene Kohler

Harvey Gene Kohler, age 90, passed away on July 23, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and a deep love for his family and the outdoors.

Harvey was born on July 14, 1936, in Plentywood, Montana, to Tom and Nola Kohler. He spent his childhood in Idaho, where he helped his family operate their dairy farm. Those early years instilled in him a strong work ethic that remained with him throughout his life.

From 1954 to 1957, Harvey proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he married his first wife, Judy, and together they welcomed two children, Mark and Marcy. Although their marriage later ended in divorce, Harvey remained a devoted father.

On July 14, 1978, Harvey married the love of his life, Lorena Watters Kohler. Together they built a life filled with adventure, laughter, and cherished family memories. They spent countless days camping, fishing, and enjoying the company of their children, grandchildren, and, later, great-grandchildren.

Throughout his life, Harvey wore many hats. He worked as a logger in the Pacific Northwest, a concrete foreman, a construction worker, and eventually found his calling as a truck driver. He retired from BTI in the early 2000s after many years behind the wheel.

After retirement, Harvey and Lorena opened The Wishing Well Jewelry and Gifts, where Harvey learned the craft of goldsmithing. He took great pride in repairing treasured jewelry and especially enjoyed visiting with the many customers who walked through the shop's doors. His friendly smile and willingness to help made lasting impressions on everyone he met.

An avid outdoorsman, Harvey found his greatest peace in nature. Whether he was fishing, four-wheeling, or camping, he was happiest with a fishing pole in his hand and the mountains around him. He spent many summers camping at Fiddler's Lake and Worthen Meadows and loved taking his small aluminum boat out onto the water. Some of his favorite fishing trips were spent chasing walleye at Boysen Reservoir and brookies at Shoshone Lake.

Camping wasn't just about being outdoors, it was about spending time together. On rainy or cool days, Harvey could often be found inside the camper gathered around the table playing cribbage and other card games with family. He especially loved teaching others how to play cribbage, including a few of his own "creative" tricks, ensuring there was always plenty of laughter around the table.

Music always brought Harvey joy. It was a treat when he’d get out his guitar and play some rock and roll. He especially loved Creedence Clearwater Revival and enjoyed sharing music with his grandchildren.

One of Harvey's greatest joys was tending the colorful flowers that lined his back porch each summer. He carefully planted and cared for them, delighting in the hummingbirds they attracted. Even in his later years, when gardening became more difficult, his granddaughter lovingly planted flowers for him so he could continue enjoying their beauty from his kitchen window.

More than anything, Harvey treasured time with his family. His quiet strength, steady presence, playful sense of humor, and willingness to lend a helping hand will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Harvey is survived by his son, Mark (Lori) Kohler; his daughter, Marcy Kohler; his stepson, Tim Brown; his sister, Sharon (Craig) Clark; his granddaughters, Briana (Dan) Rickman, Kara (Grant) Anderson, Gabby (Seth) Juel, Shannon (Storm) Abyeta, and Korey (Justin) White; his grandsons, Jake Nelson, Kirby (Jessice) Kohler, Isaac Whitacker, and Abraham Whitacker; as well as multiple great-grandchildren, extended family, and many dear friends.

Harvey was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lorena Kohler; his parents, Tom and Nola Kohler; his brothers, Ted Kohler and Ronnie Kohler; his stepdaughters, Jody Shaffer and Tammy Robinson; his sons-in-laws, Charlie Shaffer and Lee Robinson; and his sister-in-law, Jeanie Kohler.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Details will be shared with family and friends once arrangements have been made. 

To share a memory of Harvey or leave a special message for the family, please visit the guestbook below.