Obituary

Ernest H. Koehn, 92, died Monday, May 12, 2014, at Kidron Bethel in North Newton.

Ernest was born on March 9, 1922, in rural Goessel to Henry and Sarah V. (Friesen) Koehn. He was married Aug. 19, 1942, to Nola Schmidt at Tabor Mennonite Church in rural Marion County.

Ernest retired from the Gas Service Company in 1984 after 36 years of employment. He was a loving husband, dad and grandpa. Family came first and was shown by his avid interest in their health, happiness and activities. He cherished family meals, where his wife's cooking, laughter and family conversation brought him joy.  Ernie enjoyed bowling on a team in younger years and found a niche for his interest in music by singing in the Newton Barbershop chorus and quartet. In his retirement, he looked forward to coffee with friends and taking trips with Nola. Ernie's perfection with details was evident in everything he did. A highlight was driving his "slick" older model vehicles and keeping detailed records on them.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Nola of 71 years, who passed away Jan. 10, 2014; a daughter, Marsha Gwen (1958); and parents, Henry and Sarah Koehn.  He is survived by two daughters, Iris Strahan of Springfield, Ill., Maureen Fast and husband, Kenneth of Newton; a brother, Elmer Koehn; and sister, Ruth Collins, all of Newton; four granddaughters, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson.

A funeral service will be held at Petersen Family Funeral Home on Friday, May 16, at 10 a.m. with burial at Greenwood Cemetery. Noon meal following. Viewing is open to the public from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 15. Family visitation will be at the funeral home prior to service 9:15 to 10 a.m. at Petersen Funeral Home.  A memorial has been established for Harry Hynes Hospice.