BillJohn Koehler of Hampton Bays died at home on April 29, 2019, with his sister, Betsey, by his side.
Mr. Koehler was born and raised in Hampton Bays. He worked for years as a truck driver, the past few years for Southampton Masonry. He was an active member of the community as a volunteer firefighter for Hampton Bays Fire Department, an honorary member of the Hampton Bays Volunteer Ambulance Corps and a member of the American Legion.
He was well known for his annual tradition of being the most popular “Santa,” with gigs at Hampton Bays Elementary School, many East End fire department holiday parties, Ronald McDonald House Children’s Hospital, as well as at local establishments. He was known by family and friends as “the man so nice they named him twice.” Survivors said he was known for his huge heart, generosity and acts of kindness. He was often the life of the party.
Mr. Koehler was predeceased by his father, William Herman Koehler, in 1972, and his mother, AnnaMae “Granny” Koehler, in 2013. He is survived by his sister, Elizabeth “Betsey” Imperial and husband Michael Imperial; his brother, Walter W. Koehler and fiancée Adrienne; his nephews, Anthony Imperial (Caitlin), Walter E. Koehler (wife Crystal), Daniel Koehler (Veronica) and Andrew Koehler; a niece, Heather Koehler; and six great-nieces and great-nephews. Mr. Kohler was like an uncle and brother to many.
Memorial donations may be made to Ronald McDonald House of Long Island.
Visitation was on Saturday, May 4, at the Scott-Rothwell Funeral Home in Hampton Bays; a firematic service followed at 7:30 p.m. that evening.