Patrick "Duke" Anthony Koehler

FUNERAL SERVICES

10:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 20, 2021

Urban Native Center

1501 Geneva Center

Sioux City, Iowa

WAKE

7:00 p.m. Monday, October 18, 2021 and 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 19, 2021

Urban Native Center

   Duke was born on December 1, 1956 in Norfolk, Nebraska to Harry Frederick Koehler and Mary Mae Fure, Goldman.  His stepfather was Edward Goldman, Sr.  He was raised in Norfolk, Nebraska and attended school there and worked various jobs throughout the area.  He joined the Navy and completed one year and a half.  Upon returning he attended a trade school in Norfolk, Nebraska where he received a two-year degree in Auto-Mechanic. 

   In years to come he worked for the Renner’s Pork Plant, in Norfolk, Nebraska and Ho Chunk, Inc., out of Winnebago, Nebraska.  His last job was with R.J.T. that he retired from.

   He enjoyed family gatherings, powwows, sundancing, working and helping people and relatives with their cars.  The most precious time was spending time with his grandchildren in whom he took great pride in.  His wife, Vandra and he spent many years together, married and divorced and recently remarried on October 15, 2021 at St. Luke’s Hospital.  There love and commitment for each year was very strong, they lived together as husband and wife all their lives.

   Duke was an active member of the Wase Wakpa Oyate Sundance Group for over ten (10) years, he participated as a sundancer for over five years, and always provided a meal for the people, along with a giveaway.   He was very well respected in the Vermillion Community.

   On Labor Day weekend’s we’d celebrate a traditional family gathering and share a nice meal together with family and relatives.   Before, closing he would bless us with his guitar and beautiful country and western songs.   Duke had a beautiful voice.

   Duke and Vandra always opened their doors for anyone who had no home or was hungry.  They both always loved people and enjoyed sharing their foods with all. 

   Duke is survived by his wife Vandra Koehler his three daughters, Rita Koehler, Yvonne Koehler and Priscilla Koehler.

   Seven grandchildren, Lewie and Nana Koehler, Ambrosia Koehler, Angel and Salvordor Baez, Jr., Bryce, Jr and Wyatt Paul, one adopted grandchild, Jacob, and one brother, Jerry Koehler.

   Preceding him in death are his parents Harry Frederick Koehler and Mary Fure, Goldman.  His stepfather Edward Goldman, Sr., one grandchild Charles Koehler, and three siblings Diane Koehler, Harry Koehler and Eddie Goldman, Jr.