Richard A. "Rick" Kohl

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Richard A. "Rick" Kohl, beloved husband, father, and community leader, who died peacefully on May 5, 2026, at the age of 72. He was born on May 22, 1953, in Hartford, WI, to Albert and Dorothy (nee Schmidt) Kohl. Rick, as he was affectionately known by friends and family, lived a life marked by devotion, service, and love. 

Rick married the love of his life, Susan Jane Held, on June 7, 1975. During their 50 years together, they raised three wonderful children, nurturing a household filled with laughter, faith, and love. A steadfast member of St. Paul Ev. Lutheran Church in Slinger, Rick was deeply committed to his faith, serving many years on the church council and providing guidance and leadership to his church community. 

Rick dedicated much of his life to serving the Village of Slinger, giving 24 years of his time and talents to the Village Board. He held the roles of Village President for 9 years and Village Trustee for 15 years, always striving to improve the lives of those around him. His legacy of community service also included being a member of the Slinger Fire Department for over 20 years. 

Professionally, Rick was a valued employee at DICO Inc./Carlisle Tire and Wheel, where he worked for 37 years. In his final 14 years with the company, he proudly served as Operations Manager, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and staff. 

Beyond his professional and community commitments, Rick cherished time spent with family and friends, especially his grandchildren, playing games and attending their events. He loved playing softball, bowling, hunting, and golf. Travel was also a passion, as he and Sue made countless memories exploring new places together with their loved ones. 

Rick will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Sue, his cherished children, Krista (Brian) Voelzke, Monica Kohl, and Ashley (Tony) Carranza, and loving grandchildren, Jonathan, Madalyne, Lilly, Logan, and Katelynn. He is further survived by his mother-in-law Judy Held, sister, Barbara Meyer, and many other relatives and friends. His life was a testament to compassion and commitment, one that will resonate within the hearts of many.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Kohl Jr. and Dorothy Kohl, his father-in-law, Harold Held, brothers-in-law, Ronald Meyer and Roy Pickhard.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, 1:00 PM at St. Paul Ev. Lutheran Church (799 St. Paul Dr.), Slinger. The family will receive friends and relatives, on Saturday, at the church, from 10:00 AM until 12:45PM. Rick will be laid to rest at Union Cemetery, in Slinger, immediately following the memorial service. We invite all who knew him to join us in celebrating the remarkable life of Richard A. Kohl, a man who exemplified kindness, integrity, and dedication to family and community. Memorials to St. Paul Ev. Lutheran Church, Slinger are appreciated. Please visit www.plopperfh.com to view the Rick Kohl video tribute or to send online condolences to the Kohl Family.

A special thank you to the Grafton Aurora Cancer Care, especially Dr. Corey Shamah and Kathleen Klement, as well as Warren Williams of Advocate Aurora Hospice, for all of their wonderful care and compassion.