Mrs. Shirley J. Kahler, 81, a resident of St. Joseph Nursing Home, formerly of Utica passed away on Saturday June 30, 2012 at the nursing home with her loving family by her side. Shirley was born in Syracuse on November 28, 1930 the daughter of Loren and Hazel (Wolford) Chapman and received her education in Utica Schools. On August 14, 1954, Shirley married Ronald L. Kahler, a loving and devoted union of 57 years, until Ronald death in May of this year. For many years, she was employed in the membership department with AAA in Utica until her retirement. Shirley had a great passion for reading and most importantly caring for her family. Mrs. Kahler is survived by two sons and a daughter-in-law, Steven Kahler of Utica and Gregg and Sharon Kahler of Colorado; six grandchildren, Adriane and Lucas Hernandez, Michael and Corinne Kahler, Sarah Kahler, Matthew Kahler and Jared Kahler; three great grandchildren, Austin, Abbey and Makinley; one sister, Carol Clem of Clinton; a devoted former daughter-in-law, Judy Kahler of Whitesboro and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a son, Mark Kahler. Mrs. Kahler's funeral will be held on Friday July 6, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica. Her interment will follow in Crown Hill Memorial Park in Kirkland. Calling hours for family and friends are Thursday from 4:00-7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL 33607 in Shirley's memory. Mrs. Kahler's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff at St. Joseph Nursing Home for the wonderful care and compassion you provided to Shirley.