Pauline “Happy” Koehler Holt, a centenarian 103 years of age of Salem, IL passed away Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at Twin Willow Nursing Center in Salem. Her dear friends and her nursing staff were at her side. During W.W. II she worked one year as a riveter in a defense plant in Akron, OH and two years at Moffett Field Naval Air Base, Mountain View, CA in the template department, where her husband was stationed until the end of the war. Always known as “Happy,” she graduated high school, and was especially proud of the fact she had a record 12 years perfect attendance. At age 40, she entered college, received an Associate of Arts degree from Centralia Junior College, followed by a Bachelor of Arts degree at McKendree College, and a Masters degree at SIU-Edwardsville. “Happy” retired after 23 years of teaching in Alma, Raccoon and Salem Elementary School District #111. She was a member of the Sandoval Christian Church, the Illinois Retired Teachers Association, and Salem Township Hospital Auxiliary. For many years, she enjoyed listening to music, reading and gardening.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 am Monday at the Sandoval Cemetery with Pastor Michael Feldmann officiating. The public is invited to meet at the graveside in time for the service. There will be no public visitation. Memorials may be made to the Sandoval Cemetery, or to the Donor’s choice and will be accepted by the Sutherland – Rankin Funeral Home, P. O. Box 97, 310 N. Broadway, Salem, Illinois 62881 (618) 548-1234, entrusted with the family’s care.
Survivors include her niece Darlene Thomas of Prosser, WA, several great nieces and a great nephew and 3 dear friends she was privileged to know including, Adella Swisher, John Collier and Bettye Shuler.
Born January 29, 1918 in Sandoval, IL, she was the daughter of August H. and Welhelmina (Abel) Koehler. She united in marriage with Robert L. Holt, January 19,1939 in Webster Groves, MO, officiated by Rev. Barney Morris. “Bob” preceded her in death January 24, 1997. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her dear son Roger in 1983. Also by her siblings Virgil and Edward Koehler, Sarah Koehler, Ida Mundy, Nettie Smith and Lena Warren.
