1951–2022
On Monday, September 12, our kind and loving mother, granny, sister, aunt and friend, “Liz” Margaret Elizabeth Kohle (née Rigney), passed away after a short battle with illness. She was 71.
Born on her mother’s 28th birthday, Liz was raised on the Rigney family farm near Bon Accord—the place she would call home her entire life. Liz enjoyed an active, wholesome and independent childhood with her big brother John, younger siblings Gordon and Janet, as well as many cousins and local friends.
Liz always knew she wanted to be a nurse, like her mum, and she graduated from the University of Alberta with a BScN in 1973. While serving as a nurse in Fort Chipewyan in 1974, she fell in love with Saskatchewan-born RCMP officer Ron Kohle, and they were married one year later.
Liz and Ron welcomed two boys, Michael and Stephen, as they lived and worked in various northern communities, before returning to Sturgeon County and back to the Rigney farm in 1994. Liz loved being a mum, but she also loved being a nurse, and she remained a passionate advocate for the health of her community, working mothers, and the nursing profession.
Ron passed away suddenly in 2001, and as Liz’s career wound down, she focused her attention and time on public education. She served four terms as trustee for Sturgeon Public Schools, culminating in winning a province-wide service award in 2020. Liz also proudly served 21 years on the Oak Hill Ranch Board of Directors.
Liz is adoringly remembered by her sons, Michael and Stephen (Jen); grandchildren, Greta, Lachlan, John, Arthur, Calvin and Hugh; brother Gordon (Barb); sister Janet (Gaby); as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, neighbors, classmates, colleagues and friends. We all celebrate Liz’s optimistic spirit, easygoing nature, genuine kindness, and love for her community.
Liz is predeceased by her husband Ron; parents Hugh and Jessie (née Galbraith); brother, John; nephew, Curtis; and her left foot.
A brief viewing for family and close friends will be held Thursday, September 22, 2022, from 4pm–6pm at Sturgeon Memorial Funeral Chapel, 5016 47 Avenue, Bon Accord, Alberta.
Please join the family in a celebration of Liz’s life on Friday, September 23, 2022, at 11am at the Morinville Community Cultural Centre, 9502 100 Avenue, Morinville, Alberta.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in memory of Liz to Oak Hill Ranch Foundation, or your favourite health or education charity.
Arrangements entrusted to the care of Sturgeon Memorial Funeral Chapel (780) 921-3900
