VOORHEESVILLE — Dorothy Bremer Kohler, a longtime resident of Voorheesville and devoted member of the New Scotland Presbyterian Church, died peacefully on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at St. Peter’s Hospital, surrounded by loved ones. She was 95.

“Born on Jan. 11, 1930, in Astoria, Queens, to Ernest and Emma Bremer, Dorothy spent her early childhood in the city before moving to the family farm in Gilboa, New York — a place she always considered home,” her family wrote in a tribute. “Her love for the countryside shaped her generous spirit and curiosity, and she thrived as a student and writer, graduating as salutatorian of her Gilboa High School class.

“Dorothy became a registered nurse after graduating from Memorial School of Nursing in Albany. She especially cherished her time caring for patients in their homes.

“In 1950, she married Lewis Kohler and moved to Voorheesville in 1956, where they raised four children in a home built with love by her family. Her household was always open and welcoming — filled with laughter, good food, and gentle wisdom.

“Family remained central to Dorothy’s life. She made sure her children stayed close to their roots in Gilboa and maintained strong ties with extended family. Her warmth drew others in, and many friends of the family considered her a second mother.

“Dorothy was a pillar of New Scotland Presbyterian Church for 60 years, teaching Sunday school, leading youth programs, and sharing her famous cooking at church events, and local and regional Kiwanis meetings. She brought the same dedication to every role she held there, serving with joy and quiet leadership.

“Later in life, Dorothy returned to her love of writing, joining a writers’ group and eventually publishing ‘Remembering Friends and Family.’ She continued building friendships everywhere she went — from Gracie’s Kitchen to the local library and senior lunches — always forming new circles of care and connection.

“Dorothy touched many lives with her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering spirit. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.”

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Dorothy Bremer Kohler is survived by her children, Van (Lynn), Richard (Joan), and Wendy; her grandchildren: Daniel, Emily (Jon Curkendall), Erin, Amy, Stephen, Jackie, and Eric (Mikayla Papp); and her extended family, including Gale Kohler and Donna Gray.

Her parents, Ernest and Emma Bremer, died before her, as did her brother, Ernest; her husband, Lewis; and her son, Stephen. 

A Celebration of Life took place at the New Scotland Presbyterian Church on May 22 with a private graveside service on May 23 at Gilboa Rural Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the New Scotland Presbyterian Church, 2010 New Scotland Rd., Slingerlands, NY 12159: https://www.newscotlandpc.org/