Raymond L. Kohl, 70

Raymond L. Kohl, 70, of Woodstock, passed away on Nov. 23, 2025. Ray was a man who took great pride in providing for those he loved. He was a loyal husband, a devoted father, and the kind of grandfather every child hopes for. He was steady, warm, and endlessly supportive.

Born on Nov. 17, 1955, Ray was the son of Raymond and Loretta Kohl. From a young age, he carried with him the values of hard work, creativity, and unwavering dedication. These traits remained at the core of who he was throughout his life.

On April 29, 1978, Ray married the love of his life, Tammie (Gehrke), and together they built a family grounded in love, laughter, and teamwork. He was the proud father of Raymond A. Kohl (Katrina) and Tracey Brokaw, and the deeply cherished Papa to Jacob Kohl (Ashley), Emily Turner (Chris Wilkerson), Andrea Garcia (Sam Janquart), Riley Sexton (Daniel), Dylan Brokaw, and Damian Brokaw. Ray’s legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Noah, Dominick, Melody, Luna, Malcomb, Leo, Mavis, Daemon, Donald, Van, and Willow, each of whom brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his sister, Sue Ellen Siatos, and her children Lexi and Nick.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond G. and Loretta Kohl, and his sister, Katherine Kohl-Houston.

Ray was the owner of R.L. Kohl Floor and Window Covering, a business he poured his heart and craftsmanship into for many years.

A man of endless curiosity and countless talents, Ray lived a richly layered and vibrant life. He loved to travel, scuba dive, boat, fish, and collect rocks. He was always seeking adventure and beauty in the world around him. To us, he was a true rock star, bringing music to life as a bass and guitar player. Some of his closest, lifelong friendships were formed during his youth while playing in several bands. Ray also had a flair for the stage, with his most memorable role being Dracula during his senior year of high school.

Ray was also deeply woven into his community. He was an active member of the Woodstock Jaycees, where he never hesitated to lend a hand, He frequently helped with fireworks displays and once donned the beloved Woody Woodstock costume. He volunteered for years with the Woodstock Dolphins and coached in the Woodstock Girls Softball League. He was hands-on, present, and never missed an opportunity to support Raymond and Tracey in their activities. He loved a good pun and always had a dad joke ready. He was the life of every party, and often the bartender at family events. He taught his children to stand firm in their beliefs and to never let a bully win.

While our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing that Ray’s journey continues in a place of peace. The love he shared stays with us quiet, steady, and everlasting. We will feel him in the warmth of family gatherings, in laughter shared, and in every moment, he taught us to stand strong.”

A celebration of life will be planned by the family in the near future, when stories, laughter, and memories will be shared in honor of a man who truly lived life on his own terms.