Joellen J. Koehler, age 45, of Merrill, passed away on Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, at the UW-Madison Hospital, with her loving family at her side. She was born on July 28, 1980 to Joel and Carol (Sherman) Lechleitner in Rhinelander, Wis. At the age of 15, Joellen underwent a successful and life-saving heart transplant. She attended and graduated from Tomahawk High School, before continuing her education at UW-Eau Claire, earning her bachelor’s degree in accounting. On Jan. 10, 2004, Joellen married Benjamin Koehler, a loving union lasting 21 years. He survives.
Joellen was known for her incredible organization and talent for planning. She loved planning trips, home improvement projects and parties, often earning the title of “family planner.” Joellen enjoyed redecorating her home for a fresh look and was a crafty, creative, and determined “go-getter” who always kept busy. When she did take time to relax, she loved settling in with a good book.
Throughout every medical challenge she faced, Joellen remained strong, resilient, and steadfastly positive, never one to complain. Her strength, creativity, and love for her family will be remembered and cherished always. Joellen will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Joellen is survived by her husband: Ben Koehler, son: Bryce Koehler, parents: Joel and Carol Lechleitner, father and mother- in-law: August (Sandy) Koehler, brothers: Jed (Leah) and Tony (Denise) Lechleitner, sisters-in-law: Angela (Richard) Metzler and Wendy Koehler, brother-in-law: Jason (Marcie) Koehler and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her daughter: Aubrey Koehler.
The funeral service for Joellen will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral Home, 301 Eagle Dr., Merrill, Wis. Deacon Dan Towle will officiate. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025, from 9 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, please direct donations in Joellen’s name to either the Make A Wish Foundation, https://wish.org/give-hope-granting-life-changing-wishes or the UW Heart Transplant Center, https://give.wiscmedicine.org/give/581551.
The family wishes to extend a sincere thank you to the wonderful and caring staff with the UW heart transplant team in Madison.
Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation Services of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com.
