With heavy hearts, we share the news of Kathryn “Joan” Kammler, who peacefully passed away on March 16, 2025, at the age of 96. Born on November 30, 1928, in Plymouth, Indiana, she lived a life rich in love and learning, touching countless lives as a dedicated educator.
She earned her Master’s Degree from Indiana State University with honors, as she devoted over three decades to teaching elementary students in schools across Illinois and Indiana, at Carrier Mills School System, Illinois; Pana Illinois School System; Vigo County School System, Terre Haute, IN; and finally DeVaney Elementary School. She inspired generations with her patient guidance and nurturing spirit, teaching not just lessons from books, but instilling a love for knowledge and curiosity in her pupils.
Kathryn “Joan” spent over 50 years in Terre Haute, IN, but the last 13 years of her life at Hillview Retirement Community in Portsmouth, Ohio, where she comfortably embraced her golden years, relishing her passion for reading-especially historical novels and books about U.S. presidents-while enjoying spirited games of Bridge with friends.
A devoted matriarch of her family, she is survived by her daughters: Cynthia DeWitt O’Brien of Atlanta, GA, and Susan DeWitt-Champion of Sturgis, KY; her son, Dr. Kevin (Alicia) Kammler of Wheelersburg, OH; nine beloved grandchildren: Stephanie (Beau) Hainsworth, Benjamin (Amy) Dyer IV, Anabelle Alt, Amy Martin, Justin (Sydney Aaliyah) Kammler, Zachary Kammler, Molly (Ben) Pflum, Aiden (Jozi Brown) Kammler, and Ali Sexton; seven great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will forever remain in the hearts of her family.
She was preceded in death by her two husbands, Ted Dewitt, who she married for six precious years before his passing in 1953, and William Kammler, her partner in life for 65 beautiful years until his passing in 2021. She was also predeceased by her parents, Alfred and Gertrude Alice (Nee Poor) Dolohery, her brother Alfred Dolohery Jr., four sisters: Margaret Hamilton, Mary Ruth Laymon, Patricia Thate, and Sharon Conely; and her beloved granddaughter, Angela Meadows.
Family services will be held privately, honoring her wishes and celebrating a life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask that you consider making a donation to your local hospice in her memory.
Please visit www.fcdaehlermortuary.com to leave a special memory or condolences for her family.
