Thomas N. “TK” Kahler

Thomas "TK" Noel Kahler, age 81, was born December 14, 1942 in Westerville, Ohio. Son of Karl and Mary Kahler, Tom had two brothers, Steve and Victor Kahler, both deceased. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Susan MacRae Kahler, children Natalie MacRae Kahler and Nicholas Beau Kahler, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. TK was a husband, father, mentor, coach, and friend to many. He received his bachelor's degree in Mathematics from Heidelberg College in 1964 and his M.A. in Guidance and Counseling from Alabama University in 1967.

TK had tremendous pride in his children, Natalie and Nick. Both were graduates of Upper Arlington High School, class of 2009 and 2016, respectively. Natalie competed in Division I gymnastics and graduated from Temple University. She acquired her law degree from Capital University and now serves as a Franklin County Prosecutor. Nick graduated and commissioned from the U.S. Air Force Academy, now a Captain and KC- 135 pilot at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois.

Tom brought confidence and guidance to many he taught. He coached, taught and provided mentorship to many high school aged students through his teaching years at: Las Vegas Robertson, Archbishop Hoban, Marion Franklin, Mifflin, Linden McKinley, North Adult Education Center, Briggs, and ECOT, as well as Ohio Dominican College and Highlands University.

TK was an "unofficial scout" in the central Ohio basketball community. In retirement, he volunteered as assistant coach for Jones Middle School in Upper Arlington. He strived and succeeded in making a lasting impact on scores of players and students all over Ohio. TK frequently attended many high school basketball games where he enjoyed watching from the top corner of the bleachers.

In addition to swimming daily, Tom was passionate about travel and learning about other countries' history and cultures. Many trips over the years took him to faraway places such as the China, Galapagos Islands, Greece, Israel, Kenya, Morocco, Norway, Spain, various places in North, Central and South America and most of the Caribbean Islands.

Tom Kahler was proud of all of whom were in his life - his family, children, friends, students, and athletes. He found joy in witnessing others successes, triumphs, and accomplishments.

The Kahler family thanks you for celebrating his life and triumphs. All are encouraged to donate to a charity or organization of their choice in lieu of flowers.

Informal memorial and fellowship will be held at Moreland Funeral Home, 55 E. Schrock Road, Westerville, Friday from 4-8 p.m., comments from friends beginning at 6:30.