Peggy LaRue Kohler, 1940-2025; Office Support Specialist
Peggy LaRue Kohler of Wood River, Ill., died Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, at Alton Memorial Hospital. She was 85.
Born Sept. 4, 1940, Kohler served Southern Illinois University Edwardsville for more than three decades as an Office Support Specialist. She began her career at SIUE on Sept. 16, 1963, and retired on Sept. 30, 1997, following a dedicated career supporting University administration.
Beyond her professional service, Kohler was active in her community and faith. She was a longtime member of the Bethalto Church of God, where she sang and traveled with both the main choir and Bell Choir.
Kohler was affectionately known as “Grandma” or “Grandma Peggy” by her honorary grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She shared life on a farm with her husband, Billy Dean Kohler, whom she married in 1963. He preceded her in death in 2000.
Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 10, at Marks Mortuary in Wood River, Ill. Burial will follow at Wanda Cemetery in South Roxana.
Read her family obituary at Mark's Mortuary.
Photo: Peggy LaRue Kohler, courtesy of Mark’s Mortuary
