Katharine Kohler (Graham) of Carefree, Arizona, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026, at the age of 102. She was born June 12, 1923, in Portland, Oregon, to the late Clyde Graham and Irma Moorehouse. Katharine’s legacy is marked by her unwavering strength and devotion to her family. 

Katharine was a proud graduate of Washington High School in Portland, Oregon, and went on to study at Oregon State University in Corvallis. During her college years, Kay was a proud member of the Pi Beta Phi sortie. Following her education, she traveled to Honolulu, Hawaii to join her longtime sweetheart, Dick Kohler. They were married there on December 14, 1948. Shortly thereafter, they relocated to Lafayette, California to welcome their two sons, Joseph G. Kohler and William R. Kohler. Due to her husband’s work, she and her family lived in Angeles City, Republic of the Philippines; Wake Island, Micronesia Pacific Ocean; Cherry Hill, New Jersey; and finally, Mesa, Arizona in 1967. With her two sons attending the Mesa public schools, she and her husband joined the Mesa County Club which became the center of their social activities. They were avid snow skiers, tennis players, and golfers. During this period, Kay took up flying, achieved her pilot's licenses, and became an active member of The Ninety-Nines, an organization for women pilots.

Later in life, after the passing of her husband, her major interest was playing bridge at the Mesa Country Club with her friends. She also became an avid world traveler. At one count, she had visited more than 40 countries and their major cities on all seven continents. To fill the time, Kay worked for the Phoenix Convention Center. As a host, greeting conventioneers, her warmth and hospitality left a lasting positive impression on the attendees. She was also a regular volunteer at St Marks Episcopal Church of Mesa, assembling and distributing food supplies for those in need in the local community.

Katharine was predeceased by her beloved husband of 35 years, when Richard L. Kohler contracted a major illness that he could not overcome. She is survived by her two sons, four granddaughters, and five great grandchildren who carry forward her spirit and values. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and celebrate Katharine’s remarkable life. Katharine Kohler will be remembered for her loving heart, her vibrant spirit, and the lasting impact she made on her family and community. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A service will be held at Meldrum Mortuary on Thursday, January 29, starting at 12:00 PM; located at 52 N MacDonald, Mesa, AZ 85201.

Service followed by a graveside service at Mesa City Cemetery at 1:30 PM; located at 1212 N Center Street, Mesa, AZ 85201.

A Celebration of Life event will follow at the Mesa Country Club from 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM; located at 660 W Fairway Drive, Mesa, AZ 85201. 

In Lieu Of Flowers, Please Donate to The Arizona Humane Society, or St. Mark's Church Outreach, or Charity of Choice.