Robert E. Kohls died peacefully December 18, 2021, at the Norwich Rehabilitation Center in Norwich, NY. He was 90 years old. Born and raised in Portage, WI, Bob went to the University of Wisconsin - Madison, where he earned his B.S, M.S, and Ph.D. degrees in Parasitology and Entomology. He completed his military obligation in the U.S. Army Reserves, Medical Service Corps attaining rank of a Captain. Bob began his career as a research parasitologist at The Upjohn Company. He and his wife, Patricia, along with their 4 children moved to Norwich, NY in 1968 to work for the Norwich Pharmaceutical Company as section chief of parasitology in veterinary research. Bob continued his work in veterinary parasitology before working for himself within the industry, then retiring as proprietor of the Gray Fox Bar in Norwich, NY.
Bob was loving and kind, affectionately known as “Doc” to many. He loved antiquing, fishing, hunting, and the Green Bay Packers, though he most enjoyed spending time with his family.
For almost 17 years, Bob was a resident of the Norwich Rehabilitation Center after suffering a severe stroke. We would like to thank the staff for the care he received. A special thank you to Tish Parry, his nurse, who always referred to him as the “grumpy, old German” which would instantly put a smile on his face. Lastly, thank you to George Hitchcock, his roommate and friend for many years.
Bob is preceded in death by his parents Hazel and Petie Kohls and his wife, Patricia Allin Kohls. He is survived by his four children: Lisa Kohls (Greg Sacharuk) of Hendersonville, TN, Todd Kohls (Sandy) of Mandeville, LA, Heather DeLorme (Bill) of Binghamton, NY, and Holly Brightman (Gary) of Norwich, NY. He is remembered fondly by his nine grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren: Gregory Benedicto and his son Christopher Benedicto; Lauren Benedicto; Abi Sutton (Damien); Scott Kohls (Meagan) and their daughters, Ainsley and Maya; Carter Brightman (Nicole White) and their children Chase, Ella, Gage, Liam, and Noel; Katie Sacharuk; Grant Brightman; Amanda Kohls; and Cole Brightman; along with close family friend, James Jenkins.
Bob’s family would love for him to be remembered for his smile, his infectious laugh, and his love of life. A celebration of life for family will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are with the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.