Major General Joseph Koler, Jr.

Major General Joseph Koler, Jr., USMC (Ret.) passed away on 1 January, 2016, at age 90. He was a man of character, befitting of his generation. General Joe Koler was born in Tacoma, Washington to working class parents. He grew up during the Depression and joined the Marines in 1943, starting a long and distinguished career.

Joe was commissioned second lieutenant in 1946 and assigned to the 1st Marines in Tientsin, China, as an infantry platoon leader. Joe had some real adventures in China and to this day could order his Chinese food in Chinese.

Joe deployed to Korea in 1950 with the 1st Marine Division and participated in the Inchon Landing and the Chosen Reservoir Campaign. Joe told the story of being encamped at the "Frozen Chosen" and receiving a care package from his future wife, Daisy DeBaun. Included with cookies was an Aqua Velva bottle. Scruffy 1^st Lieutenant Koler wondered aloud why he needed aftershave given his surroundings and his Sergeant, who was sometimes known to sample exotic alcohol blends said, "pass that over here." Raising the Aqua Velva to his lips the Sergeant proclaimed, "that’s scotch!" Surviving the Red Chinese horde and frozen conditions, Joe decided Marine flight school in Pensacola would be warmer.

Joe married Daisy DeBaun in 1951, and received his wings in November, 1952. Joe and Daisy’s first son, Joseph III, was born later that month. Second son Kevin was born in 1954 while Joe was on his second tour in Korea. Third son Duncan was born in 1958 and daughter Edith was born in 1960. There was never a dull moment and the USMC Family embraced us, despite the adage, "If the Marines had wanted you to have a family, they would have issued you one."

In 1963, Lt. Col. Koler took command of Marine Helicopter Squadron HMM-365 and in 1964 was deployed to Vietnam. HMM-365, affectionately known as "Koler’s Klowns," and their commanding officer saw fierce action and were well-decorated for bravery. In one mission, Joe led his squadron in typhoon conditions and under enemy fire, rescuing 1,700 Vietnamese from historic floods.

Joe served for 37 years. He received many decorations for bravery and rose to the rank of Major General. He was well-respected by those serving under him for his honesty, integrity and steady nature. He was also proud of being a Marine command officer that did not have to endure a tour at the Pentagon.

In retirement, Joe was just plain Joe to his friends and "Daddy Joe" to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was approachable and friendly to all and never spoke ill of others. Like many Vets, Joe didn’t talk much about his wartime experiences. But when he did tell a story, it was almost always with humor and a happy ending.

Joe moved in with family in Idaho in 2012 but remained in close contact with his friends in Fallbrook. He was sharp and active until the end. As recently as last November he was bringing "meals on wheels" to those less fortunate (and usually younger) than he. Joe was charitable to the end and a man of solid faith.

Joe leaves behind many good friends, his four children, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, and his dog Lacy who enjoyed their long daily walks. He will be missed for his sense of humor, wisdom, patience, kindness and unflappable nature. Most of all, he will simply be missed.