John Koehler

John Richard Koehler, age 76, of Erie, passed away on Monday July 27, 2015 at St. Vincent Hospital, with his family by his side.

He was born in Erie on April 1, 1939, the son of the late John and Maryanne (Balla) Koehler. He is predeceased by his older brother Gordon Koehler.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Joan (Custer) Koehler, and his children, Michael J. Koehler and his wife Kathleen of McKean, Eric J. Koehler, of Erie, Stephanie A. Weaver, of Fairview, and Korina R. Haley, and her husband Sean, of Erie. He is also survived by a sister, Carol Ferrando and her husband Bob Sr. of Girard. He was blessed with four grandchildren, many friends over the years, and his dogs.

John founded Alfee’s Pizza and Wings in 1970, and with the help of his family and many dedicated employees over the years, it is still going strong today, 45 years later, operated by his son Eric the last 25 years.

As a young man, John served in the United States Army Reserve with an Honorable Discharge in 1967 and was also employed at Sterling Milk and Canteen.

John was an avid fan of the Erie Otters/Blades and the Cleveland Indians. He was an enthusiastic collector of Koehler beer memorabilia and other old brewery items. He cherished Kamp. He loved to travel the country and the world and enjoy life to its fullest.

Friends may call the Burton Wintergreen Funeral Home, 2532 Norcross Road, on Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and are invited to a funeral service there on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. with Deacon Fred Keck officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the ANNA Shelter, 1555 E. 10th Street, Erie Pa, 16511.