Susan Jennifer (Martin) Kohler

Susan Jennifer Kohler, age 74, was born on May 27, 1946 in Elkhart Indiana to the late Robert J. and Susie M. (Strock) Martin.  Her positive and relentless attitude didn’t let her polio diagnosis stop her when she was just 5 years old. Growing up she climbed trees, rode horses, participated in parades, and was involved in 4-H. As a teenager, she loved listening to Ricky Nelson and had the opportunity to see him in concert later in life. She was a graduate of New Paris High School, class of 1965 and worked in the office at her family’s feed mill, Martins Feed of New Paris.  Sue later became a homemaker, nurturing and raising her daughter. Her caring nature allowed others to trust others with their children, as she babysat kids in her neighborhood for many years. Susan had always looked forward to heaven, where she would no longer need a brace to walk, and the Lord called her home November 1st, 2020.

She is survived by her daughter Jennifer (Steven) Aller of Elkhart, her grandchildren Brett (Chelsea) Aller of Buchanan, Michigan and Stephanie Aller of Elkhart, and a great granddaughter Presley Aller. Surviving as well are her siblings John (Barbara) Martin of Elkhart, and Rebecca (Don) Boyer of Albion, Indiana.

Sue was always proud of her daughter Jennifer and was honored to share the same birthday with her. She was also proud of her grandson Brett who became a fireman and granddaughter Stephanie who became a nurse. Susan’s sister Rebecca was able to research and find their birth family in the early 80’s to discover they have 1 half-brother, Jerry Fisher and 3 half-sisters, Becky Conn, Susie Maynard, and Jenny Miller. In 1976, Sue and her daughter traveled to Haiti together for a mission trip. Many years later on her 60th birthday, her sister Rebecca and brother in law Don took her to Mackinac Island for the first time and Sue instantly fell in love with the beauty and historic atmosphere of the island. She was able to go back to the island afterwards for more trips with family. Admiring nature, especially butterflies and birds, were some of her favorite past times. Sue also loved watching Andy Griffith, old TV shows and movies. Most importantly, she loved the Lord with all her heart and attended the New Paris Church of the Brethren growing up.

Due to the unprecedented times during the current Pandemic, a private graveside service will be held on Monday, November 9, 2020 at New Paris Cemetery where Sue will be laid to rest beside her parents.  The family asks that you remember Sue in your own special way.

To leave an online condolence for the family, or light a virtual candle in her memory, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.