Ronald L. Kahler, 83, of Utica, passed away Sunday, May 6, 2012 at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Utica. Ronald was born February 12, 1929 in Utica, the son of Harry and Mary (Bannik) Kahler. He was raised and educated locally, graduating from Utica Catholic Academy. In 1954, Ronald married Shirley Chapman, sharing a union of over 57 years. He was the owner and operator of Lincoln Maintenance Service, co-owner of Stanley's Restaurant and later was employed with Utica Leatherstocking Company. Ronald faithfully attended Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Utica and was a member of the Knights of Columbus, 3rd Degree. In his younger years, he was known in the area for being an excellent basketball player. Ronald is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Kahler, Utica; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Steven Kahler, Utica, Gregg and Sharon Kahler, CA; six grandchildren, Adriane and Lucas Hernandez, Michael and Corinne Kahler, Jesse Kahler, Sarah Kahler, Matthew Kahler, Jared Kahler; two great grandchildren, Austin and Abbey; two sisters, Marion Rivoli, KY, Evelyn Lanahan, New Hartford; two brothers, Harry Kahler, Otter Lake, Robert Kahler, AL; and a devoted former daughter-in-law, Judith Kahler, Whitesboro; as well as by many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his son, Mark D. Kahler; a sister, Joan Kahler; and a brother, Edwin Kahler. Mr. Kahler's funeral will be held Friday, May 11, 2012 at 10:00 am at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Utica where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in Crown Hill Memorial Park, Kirkland. Relatives and friends may call at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica, Thursday evening, from 4 - 7 pm. The Knights of Columbus will be conducting a service at 6:30 pm. Those wishing may donate to the Shriners Children's Hospital in Ronald's memory.