Anita B. Koehler

Anita Byrl Koehler, age 96, passed away Friday, August 2, 2024. Anita was the eldest of five children born to the late Robert and Esther Brigham. She was born in St Mary’s hospital, Madison on May 7th 1928. Anita attended Frank Allis Grade school and East High. 

Anita lived in the Madison area all her life raising three children with her late husband Karl whom she married April 1948. Anita is survived by two of her children. The eldest, Debby, has lived in England since 1971 whilst the younger daughter Susan has been a successful potter for over 50 years. Anita took great pride in both daughters helping Susan regularly at her art shows throughout Wisconsin and visiting her daughter in England on numerous occasions since Debby’s marriage to Robert Astin in 1973.

Anita is pre deceased by her husband Karl and her son Scott. As well as her two daughters, Anita is survived by four Grandchildren - Sarah, Anna, Brian and Alyssa -and two great Grandchildren, Joshua and Jacob. Anita is also survived by four siblings-Evelyn Burke, Herbert Brigham, Margaret Black and Helen Neely

Anita worked for AAA for fifteen years until her retirement in 1998. Prior to working at AAA Anita had several part time jobs including an aide at UW Hospital, Madison Drug Company, School census, Taxation Department, Gimbles Department store and fifteeen years at the Cake Corner. 

In addition, Anita was a Girl Scout leader and Camp Counselor. She volunteered at the Senior Centre in Middleton and Able Trek tours. 

Anita’s interests included baking, knitting and she loved a good sale! She displayed a joyful personality, was always a help to others and will be remembered with great affection. She will be sadly missed.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am Friday, Aug 23, 2024 at the Cress Center, 6021 University Ave., Madison, WI 53705. The family will greet guests from 10:00 am until the time of service. 

For those not able to attend the service in person you may register to view the service at the link below:

https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=f3b0d4f1-a8cc-4ee4-87a3-84a8566d3893

Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com

Cress Center

6021 University Ave. Madison

(608) 238-8406