In memory of

Rudy August Koehler

July 24, 1934 -  November 8, 2021

Died peacefully on November 8 in Toronto with family by his side. Loving husband of Rita for 66 years, proud father to Rudy Michael (Catherine Moffat), Tom (Maria Markos) and John. Loving Opa to Rita (Michael), Andrea (Ezio), Stephen (Angela), Simon and Matthew. Cherished great-grandfather to Julie, Kathleen, Lucas, Gabriel, Alex, Skylar and Sloan. An entrepreneur from a young age, Rudy became known and admired for his hard work, business acumen and philanthropy. After arriving in Canada in 1956 with a young family from Germany, he began a 50 year career with an electrical supply manufacturer as a mechanic, eventually serving as President of Noma Industries. He was an exceptional sailor, representing Canada in International Regattas. Rudy was awarded the Order of Canada in 2016, and he and Rita generously supported numerous educational, cultural and health care institutions. He was a compassionate man who lived by his motto ‘Love, Share and Give’.

Visitation will be held at MOUNT PLEASANT FUNERAL CENTRE, 375 Mount Pleasant Rd., Toronto (North of St. Clair Ave., enter through the East gates) 416-485-5572 on Friday, November 12, 2021 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue on Saturday, November 13, 2021 from 10:00 a.m., until time of service in the Chapel at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Mount Pleasant Cemetery.

Masks, proof of full vaccination status, and government issued ID are required for those 12 years and older in order to attend the indoor funeral services. Please leave time prior to the service to check-in. A link to view the funeral service will become available at 10:50 a.m. at the top of this page.

Please RSVP to mkmatthewkoehler@gmail.com

In lieu of flowers, donations to the following are appreciated: North York General Foundation, The Toronto Foundation or The Stratford Festival. Direct links can be found through the Donations tab on this page.

Guestbook 

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Bob “Oscar” Seitz (Sailing friend)

Entered November 10, 2021 from Toronto

A true gentleman and mentor to so many of us young sailors at the RCYC. Generous and kind-hearted. A day on the water aboard Impetus was always filled with warmth and good humour. Godspeed Rudy.

Gerry Meinzer (Friend)

Entered November 11, 2021 from Guelph

My relationship with Rudy came through the Toronto foundation as fellow fund holder. I am sorry to learn of his passing. My sincere condolences to his family.

Edward Simmons (Sailing. I raced in Impetus as a helmsman in the 1978 Canada’s Cup and knew him well over many years while I raced a C&C 3/4 tonner at RCYC.)

Entered November 12, 2021 from Niagara on the Lake, Hilton Head Island SC

I knew Rudy from sailing at RCYC over many years while racing our C&C 3/4 tonner and sailed with him on Impetus as a helmsman in the 1978 Canada’s Cup. He was a great person and Ieader. His accomplishments and generosity throughout his life inspire me.
Edward Simmons

Charles Walker (Impetus crew '79 -'81)

Entered November 12, 2021 from London, UK

Rudy was an inspiration. I will always remember his uncompromising standards, firm but fair leadership, his passionate zest for life, including a strong appetite for fine food and wine, but above all his great sense of humour. He was a fine man, whose strengths and virtues influenced many.

Al Fattore (Employee/Friend)

Entered November 12, 2021 from AJAX

With greatest respect to a tough but fair President during the Noma Tooling days and especially Innotech. Rudy would often visit the toolroom and always had a special project for me. I appreciate the trust and respect over the years, it's been a real joy.

Photos 

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