Michael R. Kohorst

Michael R. Kohorst, 65, of Van Wert died Wednesday, September 4, 2013 at St. Rita's Medical Center Lima, OH following an extended illness.

He was born March 16, 1948 at St. Rita's in Lima to Carl S. and Dorothy M. (Becker) Kohorst.

On January 17, 1970 he married Cynthia (Young) Kohorst who survives in Van Wert.

Other survivors include a daughter, Mandy (William) Hemming of Bowling Green, OH., a son, Justin Kohorst of Van Wert, three grandchildren, Gianna, Elena and Caleb Hemming, one sister, Beth (Ron) Goleman of Van Wert, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and one uncle.

He was preceded in death by his father, Carl S. Kohorst, grandparents, Roy and Helen (Keller) Becker and Frank and Ehel (Harris) Kohorst.

Upon graduation from Van Wert High School, Mike attended Bowling Green State University, where he was a member of the Falcon Marching Band.

Mike enlisted in the United States Navy on March 9, 1967 and completed basic training at Great Lakes Naval Training Center in Chicago, IL. with the designation of Firemans Apprentice. He was also a member of the band and Blue Jacket Choir.

While in the Navy, Mike served two tours of duty in Vietnam. During his first tour, he was stationed aboard the USS Cogswell DD651 as part of the Mekong Delta Riverine Force (Brown Water Navy)in the South China Sea and Gulf of Tonkin. During his second tour of duty, Mike was stationed aboard the USS Bainbridge DLGN 25 in Australia. He was Honorably Discharged from the U S Navy on December 22, 1970. He was a member of American Legion Post 178 and the Disabled American Veterans.

Mike enjoyed visiting family, reading, watching movies, listening to music and driving. A true sailor at heart, he loved to take to the waters on Rose Lake and spent time there fishing and driving the boat.

Mike was also a volunteer with Van Wert County Special Olympics for 18 years, where he served as chaperone, softball coach and Board Member.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 Wednesday, September 11, 2013 at Brickner Funeral Home. Calling will be from 2PM till 8PM Tuesday, September 10, 2013 at Brickner Funeral Home and 1 hour prior to services on Wednesday. Burial will follow in Woodland Cemetery. Military Graveside Rites will be conducted by the Combined Honors Unit of American Legion Post 178 and VFW Post 5803.

Those wishing to contribute memorials may direct them to the Van Wert Special Olympics or to the Family.