Ramon Kohl

RAMON KOHL

Marion

Ramon "Ray" Kohl, 83, of Marion, died while residing at Willow Gardens Care Center in Marion. Murdoch Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Marion will hold visitation Friday, July 18, from 4 to 7 p.m. and the service on Saturday, July 19, at 10:30 a.m.

Many remember Ray with his pride and joy, Daphney. They went everywhere together, even Barnes & Noble Bookstore, entertaining customers and staff.

Ray was born in McCook, Neb., to LaMoine and Juanita (Marimee) Kohl on June 14, 1931. He grew up in Hastings, Neb., along with five brothers. After finishing high school, football and debate team in 1949, Ray entered the Army National Guard (Company G, 134th infantry). He and Jean Hofferber married and started their family in Hastings, raising Craig Kohl (Cedar Rapids), Deborah (Kohl) Pierce (Marion), and Terrie Kohl (Clive).

In 1954, Ray began work-ing for Security Mutual Life Insurance, moving to Lincoln, Neb., as a field supervisor. Then he moved on to Cedar Rapids, opening his own office as general agent.

Ray decided to change careers in 1966, selling real estate; first, for John Zacher, then Fred Gibson. In April 1971, Ray opened the first Century 21 franchise in Cedar Rapids under Ray Kohl Realtors at 19th Street and First Avenue SE. He retired as a Century 21 brokerage firm in 1991.

Throughout his career, Ray demonstrated his community spirit and care for humanity. He supported Red Cross, March of Dimes as chairman, Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, Polk Elementary School and Cedar Hills Boys and Girls Softball.

Ray was an avid reader, especially about genealogy. One of his hidden talents was handwriting analysis. Ray said that ability assisted in his business. He enjoyed volleyball and snow skiing in his early years.

After retirement, Ray spent his time with Daphney; fishing, fly tying in his own fishing shop in his basement; and watching college football, primarily the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

Ray participated in several organizations: Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks, Order of United Commercial Travelers (UCT) of America, Sertoma and DeMolays, Masons (32nd degree) and Shriners.

Ray is survived by his three children; grandchildren, Joette Pierce and James (Melanie) Pierce; and great-grandchildren, all of Marion; one brother, Guy Kohl (York, Neb.); and lots of extended family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Manchester Fish Hatchery for the "Fish and Wildlife Trust Fund."

Please sign the online guest book for Ray at www.murdochfuneral home.com under obituaries.