Elaine E. (Barkhaus) Kohls, 94, Fond du Lac and formerly of Gillett, was born December 4, 1924 in Bonduel, WI to Albert and Adela (Graf) Barkhaus. She passed on to the Lord on January 3, 2019.
Elaine attended St. Paul Lutheran School and graduated salutatorian from Bonduel High School. She attended business college in Green Bay and worked at a bank and Dehn’s Ice Cream in Bonduel. She met Oscar Kohls at a wedding dance and swept him off his feet. They were married for 59 years before his passing. They had three children as they worked one of the largest dairy farms in Oconto County in the 1950’s and 60’s. Elaine was Gillett Town clerk for 10 years. She was devoted to her faith in the Lord and was privileged to be the first woman member of the church council at Immanuel Lutheran Church. She was active in LWML and Ladies Aid, as well as Homemakers and other volunteer activities.
Elaine always said when Oscar proposed, she asked, “Will you take me traveling?” In their retirement they traveled to 50 states, Germany and Israel. Oscar and Elaine wintered in Texas for 27 years. Later she wintered in Florida.
She loved to read, play sheepshead and dominoes, and visit with her great grand-children. She was completely devoted to her family.
Elaine was preceded in death by her husband Oscar and her brother Louis Barkhaus. She is survived by her sister Doris Buchholz, daughter Jean (Don Timpel), Carol Petty, and Charles (Tami) Kohls, grandchildren Troy (Shannon) Timpel, Tara (John) Collingwoood, Ben (Sarah) Kohls, Bill (Krista) Kohls, Jeff (Lizzie) Petty, and Amy Petty. She loved her seven great-grandchildren: Basil Gidus, Levi Gidus, Griff Kohls, Harper Kohls, Fox Petty, Felix Petty, and Baylor Kohls.
Friends and relatives may call on the family from 10 to 11:45 AM on MONDAY, January 7, 2019 at FAITH UNITED LUTHERAN CHURCH (11465 Old U, Gillett, WI 54124). A funeral service will follow at 12 NOON with Pastor John Laatsch officiating. Interment will be in Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.
The family sends special thanks to the staff Crossroads, Kindred Hearts and Generations Homecare and Hospice.
For those wishing, memorials are appreciated to Faith United Lutheran Church at the above address.
Services
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Visitation
Monday, January 7, 2019
10 – 11:45 AM
Faith United Lutheran Church
11465 Old U
Gillett, WI 54124
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Funeral Service
Monday, January 7, 2019
12 Noon
Faith United Lutheran Church
11465 Old U
Gillett, WI 54124
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Graveside Service
Monday, January 7, 2019
1:15 PM
Immanuel Lutheran Church
CTY RD H
Gillett, WI 54124
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You were loved. You will be missed.
Jean, Carol, and Chuck,
We are so sorry about the passing of your Mom. I have many memories of her, your Dad, and other relatives in Gillett; whether it was a card party, birthday celebration, or just a Sunday visit (Grandma Kohls’ sugar cookies were the best!). She was a wonderful person and I know that your own special memories will be with you always.
David and Gwen Kohls
Jean & Don family,
May God bless you during this difficult time. Cherish the memories of your Mother Elaine. May God’s promises comfort you & the family in the sorrow of a love one. May his blessings bring you peace. Our deepest sympathy.
Love & Hugs
John & Lois Kockler
Jean, So sorry for your loss of your Mother. Prayers for peace of your heart.
I will surely miss your smiles and kindness, Aunt Elaine! May you rest in the palm of His hand. Until we meet again in Heaven someday, love you!
Ruthie
Jean and family:
You’re Mother was a precious soul. Love and kindness flowed through her to others. I will always cherish having known her. I pray that God will strengthen you and comfort your hearts.