Philip Koller, who was the chair of the local Jewish Chautauqua Society for several years, passed away May 29, 2013, in Denver, surrounded by his family.
Rabbis Joe Black, Steven Foster and Deborah Bronstein and Cantor Regina Heit officiated at the June 3 service at Temple Emanuel. Interment followed at Emanuel Cemetery. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.
Mr. Koller was born Aug. 13, 1914, in Chicago, Ill. He lost his father William and brother Harold when he was three, and was raised by his mother Etta and older brother Sydney.
While in his teens, he traveled the US during the Great Depression and supported the family as a salesman.
On one of his frequent trips, Mr. Koller had a car accident and called his insurance agent. I know a beautiful woman you should meet, the agent said. Her name is Ruth Schuham.
They were married on April 15, 1942, in Chicago.
Mr. Koller served in the US Navy during WW II. For three years, he and Ruth wrote to each other every day. He kept all their letters.
After the war he came to Colorado. Mr. Kollers strong work ethic made him a successful businessman.
A conservative Republican, he initiated many spirited political discussions with friends and family.
Mr. Koller also believed in the importance of religious understanding among different faiths and chaired the local Jewish Chautauqua Society for many years.
A longtime member of Temple Emanuel, he especially enjoyed the beautiful music.
After Ruth died of breast cancer in November, 1993, he became close friends with Marion Schwartz.
Mr. Koller is survived by his son Harold (Loni) Koller; grandchildren Scott (Kathy) Koller, Kevin (Tracey) Koller, Brett (Lisa) Koller, Teade Koller and Jill Koller; and great-grandchildren Hayden, Mackenzie, Kenai, Carson, Jayden and Kaitlynn Koller.
He is also mourned by his dear friend Marion Schwartz.
Contributions may be made to The Denver Hospice or Temple Emanuel.
Copyright © 2013 by the Intermountain Jewish News
