Brian Thomas Kohl

Ocala, Florida/Mission, TX- Brian Thomas Kohl, 58, passed away on December 6, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and unwavering dedication to his family, faith, and community. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, on July 22, 1966, Brian lived every moment to its fullest, embracing life’s opportunities and never missing a chance to take a chance. His boundless energy and zest for life inspired everyone who knew him, from his family and friends to the countless people he mentored and served.

Brian’s roots in Baltimore shaped the foundation of his character. He deeply cherished his hometown, taking immense pride in the traditions and culture of Maryland. Whether it was enjoying blue crabs, cheering for the Orioles and the Ravens, savoring a Natty Boh, or celebrating all things Baltimore, Brian carried the heart of his city wherever he went.

In 1979, Brian’s family relocated to Florida, where he graduated from Lake Weir High School and began to forge his path. He shared many joyful years with his parents and brother, reenacting Civil War history, a passion that reflected his love for storytelling, tradition, and education. During these years, he also met Sonya, the love of his life. In 1991, they were married. Together, Brian and Sonya raised four extraordinary children: Brittany, Kasey, Kreig, and Sam, providing them with a home filled with love, adventure, and faith. Brian was also a proud 'Pop Pop' to six grandchildren: Kaleigh Ann, Riley, Zach, Kohl, Knox, and Salem. He often stated that they were the light of his life and brought him immense joy and pride.

Brian’s professional journey mirrored his adventurous spirit, taking his family across the country and leaving a trail of positive impact everywhere he went. From Florida to Georgia, to Colorado to Nevada and Texas, Brian advanced his career while balancing his dedication to his family and his faith. He began teaching confirmation classes at St. Augustine Catholic Church, where his mentorship shaped the lives of high school students and left a lasting impression that extended far beyond the classroom.

He was a lifelong traveler and explorer who never turned down the opportunity to submerge himself in the culture, people, history, and sights. Covering the western hemisphere from islands to icecaps, Brian would find himself at home wherever he would go.

For the last five years, Brian spent his summers in the mountains as a docent for the Colorado Department of Parks and Wildlife and his winters in Texas on South Padre Island, volunteering with Sea Turtle Inc.

In January 2024, Brian was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Despite the challenges, Brian approached this battle with the same courage and determination that defined his life. Even in his hardest moments, Brian remained a source of inspiration to those around him, demonstrating his enduring faith and love for life.

In Lieu of Flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the charities Brian supported, reflecting his dedication to meaningful causes:

· America Needs FatimaP.O. Box 341, Hanover, PA 17331americaneedsfatima.org

· Ironwood Pig SanctuaryP.O. Box 35490, Tucson, AZ 85740ironwoodpigs.org

· Peaceful Valley Donkey RescueP.O. Box 216, Miles, TX 76861donkeyrescue.org

· Mașpíya Lúta (formerly Red Cloud Indian School)100 Mission Drive, Pine Ridge, SD 57770mahpiyaluta.org

· Sea Turtle, Inc.6617 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX 78597seaturtleinc.org

· Paralyzed Veterans of America801 Eighteenth Street NW, Washington, DC 20006-3517pva.org

 He will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Ocala, Florida. Arrangements in Florida will be under the direction of Roberts of Ocala, https://www.robertsfunerals.com/