Koeffler, Harold P. Died on April 25, 2012 at 100 years old concluding an extraordinary life rich in family and friends, business, charitable activities, community leadership, hobbies, adventure travel and non-failing intellectual vigor. This accomplished life was possible only with the love, support, and companionship of Charlotte (nee Rintelman) Koeffler, Harold’s wife of 71 years, who survives him in Mukwonago along with his daughter Kristin of Milton, and son Phillip, daughter-in-law Deborah and granddaughter, Chloe of Los Angeles.
After Harold graduated from Carroll College in 1934, he joined the family-owned Chevrolet dealership in Mukwonago which Harold owned and ran as Koeffler Chevrolet from 1949 until its name changed in 1986 to Horter Chevrolet Pontiac.
Harold devoted considerable time and resources to improving his community and the lives of others. Too numerous to list, his memberships were often in leadership roles and lasted from at least 25 years to over 60, such as: Mukwonago Kiwanis and Kiwanis Foundation Board; the Mukwonago Library Board; Shriners; 32nd Degree Mason; Scottish Rite, and; Mukwonago Chamber of Commerce.
Harold’s other joys and interests were broad and life long. He was a member of Cousin Otto’s Clown Alley under his clown name “Wheels” and was honored with Life Time Membership. Harold gave clown performances with the Shrine Circus, in parades and at children’s hospitals into his 90’s. His jacket pockets were stocked with balloons for kids of all ages. Harold was Waukesha Coin Club’s oldest member, attending his last coin show and negotiating sales last month. He followed the stock exchanges and business news daily and had an uncanny ability to win raffles and games of luck.
Harold was an inveterate global traveler beginning in the 1950’s, covering every continent. His travels ranged from an invited member of the first USA business delegation to visit China, to walking on Antarctica icebergs at age 82, and exploring Iceland at 92 with his family.
This remarkable man, husband, father and friend will be missed and well remembered.
Visitation will be held at the Funeral Home on Sunday, April 29, from 2:30 PM until time of Masonic Service at 5:30 PM. A second visitation will be held at the Funeral Home on Monday, April 30, from 10:30 AM until the time of Funeral Services at 11:00 AM. Burial will be private for the family, at Oak Knoll Cemetery in Mukwonago. Charitable contributions to the Mukwonago Public Library or Timber Tree.
