Jeanne Fujiye Kohler, nee Sakahara, age 63, of Gainesville, GA, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at her home from cancer. Jeanne was surrounded by her husband, children and close friends.
Jeanne was born in Lodi, California on November 17, 1951 to Bill and Nobuye Sakahara. She grew up in Lodi, California, attended Lodi High School and graduated from Sacramento State University with a degree in Biology. She raised her children in the foothills of El Dorado County where she was active in the leadership of the Girl Scouts Terra del Oro. Jeanne was a committed mother and a (spirited) volunteer at her children's schools. (Casey and Anne remember Jeanne wearing a sweatshirt to a school function with their baby bath pictures printed on the front!)
In 2004 she and her husband, Bill Kohler, moved from California to Georgia where they have enjoyed living on Lake Lanier doing what they love best, boating. During that time, Bill and Jeanne met a wonderful group of friends who provided endless love and support during her illness. She retired from The Hartford in 2013 after 17 years of service.
Jeanne is survived by her husband, Bill Kohler; children, Casey Eklund and Anne Taylor, nee Eklund (John Taylor); parents Bill and Nobuye Sakahara; sister Glyneth Sakahara (John McKay); brother Steven Sakahara (Teresa Sakahara); and beloved dogs, Jack and Maddie.
Jeanne left her mark on this world with her joyful energy and carefree spirit. Services will be held at New Hope United Methodist church in Gainesville, Georgia on Saturday, January 31, 2015 at 10 AM. Contributions in Jeanne's memory can be made to the New Hope Methodist church or the Humane Society of Forsyth County.
