Donald "Don" Kohlenberg

Donald "Don" Kohlenberg, 88, passed away on May 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Don was born on November 11, 1937, in Louisburg, Kansas, where he was raised until 1953 when his family moved to Haven, Kansas. He graduated from Haven High School in 1955. Shortly after, Don began a career with Panhandle Eastern Pipeline, where he worked faithfully for 34 years. During his employment, the company allowed him to keep his position while also following his desires of joining the United States Air Force where he proudly served form 1960 - 1964.

In the early 1959, Don met Karen Lee Larrick. The two were married on August 5, 1961, and went on to share 64 wonderful years together. In 1978, Don transferred with Trunkline LNG, bringing his family to Lake Charles, Louisiana. He later retired from Trunkline Gas of Longville in 1993.

Retirement suited Don well, and he truly lived life to the fullest. He had a love for motorcycles, especially Hondas, but his greatest passion was traveling in his motorhome. Don and Karen spent months at a time on the road, visiting 49 of the 50 states-only missing Hawaii-and traveling through most of the Canadian provinces. For over 30 years, they made travel a priority, creating countless memories along the way.

While traveling, Don enjoyed giving back by volunteering in the state parks where they stayed. He took pride in helping care for the places he and Karen loved so much. Though he saw many beautiful landscapes, mountain ranges, and lakes, his favorite destination was Walt Disney World. It became a yearly tradition for Don and Karen, and one they gladly shared with their family.

Above all, Don was a man who loved his family deeply and embraced life with a full heart.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Karen Kohlenberg; their three sons, Christopher Kohlenberg, Brian Kohlenberg (Charlotte), and David Kohlenberg; four grandchildren, Adam Kohlenberg, Chase Kohlenberg, Katelyn Kohlenberg, and Devin Kohlenberg; two great-grandchildren, Hudson and Hayden; his brothers, Kenneth Kohlenberg (Doris) and Gale Kohlenberg; and his sisters, Marylin Thompson (Bill) and Barbara Joyce Buller (Ken).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd Christopher Kohlenberg and Esther Pauline Woodrum Kohlenberg.

A private graveside service will be held at Consolata Cemetery for family. A public celebration of Don's life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to your favorite charities.