Mary Kohler

Peacefully on February 14, 2026, Mary Kohler, aged 98 years, passed away surrounded by her loving family at Betel Personal Care Home.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Leonard Kohler (Gladys), Gloria Sims (Curtis), Grace Marteinsson (Bruce), son-in-law David Einarson, Kathleen Romanchuk (Terry), and Ann Kishka; her grandchildren: Melody (Nolan), Devin (Jenessa), Elliot (Heather), Nathan (Janet), Courtney (Alex), Mark (Brandi), Ward (Ashley), Trisha (Steve), Scott (Judith), and Steven (Rebecca); and her cherished great-grandchildren:  Abby, Emma, Noah, Owen, Abel, Ronan, Eliza, Angela, Natalie, Halaina, Violet, Jace,  Mabel, Zeke, Freya, Olivia, and Emily; sister Rose Wyryha and sister- in- law Florence Muirhead; numerous nieces and nephews and life long friend Josephine Arnason.  Mom was predeceased by her beloved husband of 62 years Egen, daughter Caroline Einarson, son-in-law Rick Kishka, granddaughter Crystal Kohler and infant grandson, Adam Marteinsson.

Mary was born on December 26, 1927, in Camp Morton, to Karol and Pauline Dudek.  She often shared fond memories of walking along bush trails to attend King Edward School and Cummings School, and of making the long trip to the village store to sell fresh eggs and handpicked berries. Growing up on the family farm, she developed many practical skills that became the foundation of her strong work ethic and lifelong dedication to her family.

As a young woman, Mom moved to Winnipeg, where she worked as a seamstress and later used her sewing talent to create clothing for her children, ensuring they were always warmly and beautifully dressed.

On May 17, 1952, Mom married the love of her life, Egen. Together they began their farming life in Fraserwood, milking cows, making hay, gardening, and preserving fruits and vegetables. Mom enjoyed dancing and singing with Dad, and together they built a life rooted in faith, love, and hard work.

Her greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends. Mom was a fabulous cook who always made sure everyone had plenty to eat. Her perogies were a family favorite, and the grandchildren could hardly wait for her famous pancakes and golden French fries.  Making lunches to take out to the hay field was a job she cherished. She loved gardening, cooking, and picking mushrooms and berries. Mom also enjoyed wiener roasts, playing cards, and the many day trips she shared with family and friends. She was fortunate to travel within Canada, to the Bahamas, Las Vegas and to the Holy Land—experiences she treasured deeply.

Mom left a lifelong legacy of love, kindness, strength, wisdom, and faith that she instilled in her family. She radiated warmth and joy to everyone who knew her. We will forever remember her gentle spirit, her unwavering devotion to her family, and the example she set through a life beautifully lived.

Pallbearers are her grandsons Mark and Ward Marteinsson, Elliot and Nathan Sims, Scott Einarson, Devin Kohler and Steven Kishka.

Funeral service will be held on February 20 at 11:00 at St. Micheal’s Church, Gimli,Mb.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thank you to the caring staff and volunteers at Betel Personal Care Home for the love, kindness and compassion shown to Mom during her time there.

Sincere thank you as well to Gilbart’s Funeral Home for their support, guidance, and compassion during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice.

Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements.

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