Obituary: Koehler, Carol Ann (Mcalister)
Age 68
She was surrounded by the love and presence of two daughters and several friends.
Born in Chula Vista, California on October 25, 1946, to Norma and Bill McAlister, Carol was surrounded by a large, Scandinavian, extended family of grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
In 1967, she was married in Chula Vista, CA.
Carol and her family moved to Denver, Colorado in 1976 and eventually she and her girls moved to Spokane in 1980.
Her professional career led her into the healthcare field and she served as supervisor in radiology and risk manager for Sacred Heart Medical Center until she retired early in 1997 due to increasing difficulties from rheumatoid arthritis.
Before and after retirement, Carol lived her life to the fullest of her ability and always retained her sense of humor, entertaining her loved ones with made up words and embellished stories.
She was loyal to a fault, patriotic to her country, and as hard a worker as could be found.
She adored her dachshunds, camping at Riley Creek, antiquing, gardening, reading, family traditions, Gonzaga basketball, the Seahawks, and her Scandinavian heritage.
She cherished and was dearly loved by her grandchildren who fondly nicknamed her “Moosie.”
She is survived by her children and their families: daughter Trasi Lynn Judd, and husband Daniel Judd, and daughter Alexa Carol Judd of Austin, Texas; daughter Heidi Gretchen Drew and her two sons Zachary Tretsven and Samuel Joseph Drew of Spokane; and nephews Chaun and Bart McAlister of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
In addition, she leaves behind close friends who loved her dearly.
Deep gratitude goes to the physicians over the years who have managed her care, alleviated some of her pain, and maintained her mobility and quality of life.
Specific thanks go to Dr. Michael Wukelic, Dr. R. Dean Martz, Dr. Gary Craig, Dr. William Weigel, and Dr. Henry Lin.
Special thanks to Susan M. Taylor PT for keeping our mother moving for so many years.
A graveside service will be Saturday, March 14, 2015, at 11:00 am at Holy Cross Cemetery, 7200 N. Wall St., Spokane, WA 99208.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Arthritis Foundation.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hennesseyfuneralhomes.com.