Obituary – Gerald L. Koogler

Gerald Leon Koogler, 85, of Licking, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on March 23, 1941, in Shannon County, Missouri, to Marvin and Goldia Koogler. On May 6, 1961, Gerald married his high school sweetheart, Jeannette Emory, and together they built a life centered on family and raised three children.

Gerald served in the U.S. Navy as a Petty Officer 3rd Class. He worked as a reverend, resort owner, building inspector, engineer and entrepreneur. Gerald received awards for his accomplishments in engineering, commercial and home building inspection, and his certification of ordination. He was an active volunteer in the Licking community center and attended craft shows, sharing his love of woodworking. Gerald enjoyed socializing and touching the lives of all he met.

Gerald is survived by Jeannette, his devoted wife of 65 years; his children, De’Leslie Koogler (Robin), Greg Koogler (Merry), and Annette Moquin (John); nine grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren, with two more on the way. He is also survived by his sister, Beverly Flannery, and his brother-in-law, Keith McDonald. His family held a special place in his heart.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Goldia Koogler; his brother, Jerry Koogler; and his sister, Rita McDonald.

He will long be remembered for his kind and loving heart, his strength, his sense of humor, and his unwavering devotion to his family. He will be forever loved and deeply missed.

Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at Fox Funeral Home, 128 S. Main Street, Licking, MO 65542. A graveside service will follow immediately at Boone Creek Cemetery, south of Licking, Mo.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Brownhill Baptist Church.

A special thank you to the Texas County Memorial Hospital (TCMH) staff for their kindness and support.