Bret A. Kohler

Bret A. Kohler, 64, of Bridgeport, New York, passed away on January 28, 2025. Born on December 23, 1960, in Buffalo, New York, Bret led a life filled with love for his family, friends, and the simple joys that brought them together.  

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Joanne; daughters Laura (Erik), Jacqueline, and Melissa (Frank); his father, John; sister, Nina; brother, Jesse (Michelle); and a large, cherished extended family of in-laws, out-laws, nieces, nephews, and grandsons. Bret was predeceased by his mother, Ida; and his in-laws, John and Jeanne Whitney.

Bret worked for the past 12 years at Warner Sales and Service, where he valued the camaraderie he shared with his co-workers and the relationships he built with his customers.

Bret took great pride in coaching his daughters' softball teams and was an enthusiastic presence at their volleyball games- cheering loudly from the bleachers. He enjoyed boating and his Thursday night golf league.  His annual fishing trip to Canada was a treasured, lifelong family tradition filled with fish stories and shore fish fries.  Above all, Bret loved just being with his family, including his new "son”, Erik, grilling and enjoying a beer under the awning while listening to classic rock, particularly the Grateful Dead.  

Bret's humor, and love for those around him will be deeply missed but forever remembered.  

                                Go Bills!

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. at Traub Funeral Home in Bridgeport, NY. A celebration of Bret's life will follow from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Oneida Lake Brew Haus in Canastota, NY.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to your local animal shelter in honor of Bret's rescue dog, Hank. 

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