Community mourns loss of school crossing guard Susi Kohler

The Muldown Elementary community in Whitefish is mourning the loss of Susi Kohler, a beloved crossing guard who helped people safely navigate the intersection of Ashar Avenue and Seventh Street.  

Kohler died Sept. 17 while at her home.

"I would venture to guess Susi had an impact on you at least once during the school year," Muldown Principal John Coyne wrote in a message to parents. "Susi was also one of our playground supervisors. Once again, she walked the playground with pride and respect."

Flowers mark her station on Ashar Avenue and Seventh Street.

Community members describe Kohler as a one-in-a-million, blazing light with a sweet soul and a huge heart.

“My youngest son was in tears when he learned of the passing of his favorite Muldown crossing guard,” wrote Meredith Patterson Brayley on a Facebook post that was met with an outpouring of emotion for Kohler from hundreds of people.  

“Every morning, we eagerly awaited the opportunity to greet Susi from our car... this interaction lifted my spirits many times,” Brayley wrote. “This tradition sparked conversations with my boys about how a simple smile can change someone's day, giving them something to look forward to.” 

Kohler was born and raised in Whitefish, was a proud performer with the Whitefish Theatre Company, and was a Whitefish Winter Carnival penguin.

Lauren Bradley, Whitefish Education Foundation representative for Muldown Elementary, started a GoFundMe page to further honor Kohler's memory.

"I would like to offer families the opportunity to contribute to Susi's memorial expenses," Bradley wrote on the GoFundMe page. "When I deliver the check to Susi's sister, Lani Johnson, for the total amount raised, I will include any cards or letters from Muldown families. Please drop these off at the front office at Muldown." 

"I'm so impressed by the amount of support ... and Susi was a jewel,” Johnson said. “Thank you for everything you are doing." 

As of Tuesday morning, GoFundMe donations totaled $1,950. Bradley asks that people donate and drop off letters by Thursday, Sept. 26. To donate, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-susi-support-her-memorial-fund.