Carol K. (LaPorte) Koehler

With heavy hearts and cherished memories, we announce the peaceful passing of Carol K. (LaPorte) Koehler on April 7, 2026, at the age of 71, surrounded by love at St. Mary's Essentia Health in Duluth, MN. Born on December 25, 1954, in Shell Lake, WI, Carol was a gift to all who knew her, bringing warmth and joy into the world on Christmas Day. Carol was the beloved daughter of the late Melvin and Elaine (Salquist) LaPorte and is now reunited with her dear husband, Corey E. Koehler, her parents, and her brother, Michael LaPorte, in eternal peace. She leaves behind a legacy of love in her surviving siblings: Melvin (Bill) LaPorte, Gene (Kelly) LaPorte, and Nancy (Gregory) Harrell, who will continue to cherish her memory. A proud graduate of Spooner High School's Class of 1972, Carol met the love of her life, Corey Koehler, and they began their journey together in marriage the same year. Carol embraced her role as a supportive partner, accompanying Corey through his professional endeavors, from their ownership of Northwest Honda in Rice Lake, WI, to their final chapter with Parts Associated, Inc. Carol's dedication to their shared dreams was unwavering, and her presence was a constant source of encouragement and strength. Gifted with a green thumb, a trait she inherited from her grandmother, Katherine LaPorte, Carol could nurture life from the smallest seedling. Her garden was a testament to her patience and love for nature, where she could often be found tending to her plants, transforming them into thriving displays of beauty. Her ability to coax life from even the most reluctant flora was a metaphor for her ability to touch the lives of those around her, always with a sweet smile and a great laugh. In accordance with Carol's wishes, a private funeral ceremony will be held to honor her life and legacy. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the ICU staff of St. Mary's Hospital for their compassionate and attentive care during Carol's final days. As we remember Carol, let us carry forward her spirit of kindness, her infectious laughter, and her unwavering love for those around her. Though she may have left this earthly realm, her spirit will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to plant something in her memory—nurture it with love, as Carol would have, and let it grow as a living tribute to a beautiful soul who will be profoundly missed and eternally cherished.