James R. "Jim" Koehler

James R. "Jim" Koehler, age 81, a resident of Albuquerque for 21 years, died Wednesday, February 28, 2018.  He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Elaine; son and daughter-in-law, David Koehler and Lucy Lieberman; daughter, Karen Koehler; two grandchildren, Elizabeth Koehler and Stephanie Koehler; brother and sister-in-law, William H. and Mildred Terry Koehler; nieces and nephews; cousins; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Jim was born in Englewood, NJ in 1936 and was raised in Ft. Lee, NJ.  He graduated from Ft. Lee High School and then went to Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ where he was Air Force ROTC and received his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Jim was commissioned and assigned to Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene, TX where he served four years.  While there, he met Elaine and they were married in September 1962.  Jim pursued his Master's Degree at the University of Nevada-Reno.  After graduating he worked for AiResearch Manufacturing Company in Phoenix, AZ for several years but then went on to attend Syracuse University for post-graduate studies.  He then took a job at Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory in Niskayuna, NY where he worked for twenty-six years.

In retirement, Jim and Elaine came to Albuquerque to enjoy the beautiful weather and outdoor activities that the area offers.  Jim became a member of Albuquerque Mountain Rescue and served as a search and rescue volunteer for seven years. He had a great love for hiking and was a member of the Adirondack Mountain Club in New York State and the New Mexico Mountain Club in Albuquerque.

An avid reader for his entire life, Jim became interested in writing in later years and wrote a memoir of his search and rescue volunteer experiences and a number of mystery novels. Along with his wife Elaine, Jim was involved in various activities at the Mountainside Church of Christ. Jim had a love for people and conversation and a curiosity for everything.  He frequently amazed people with his recollection and memory skills. Jim was a devoted husband, loving father, doting grandfather, brother, cousin, uncle and friend and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 10, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. at FRENCH-Lomas Chapel.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim's name to the Albuquerque Christian Children’s Home, Albuquerque Mountain Rescue Council, or the American Cancer Society.