René Kay Koehler (nee Berger), 64 of Oswego, was welcomed home into the arms of Jesus on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
On November 21 1961, René burst into this world on a cold, wintery day in Aurora, IL. She was born to Keith and Laurenda Berger. René graduated from Kaneland High School in 1979. She was married to Robert Rischl in September of 1980.
René worked in sales at Nicor, where she shined in a predominantly male field. She dedicated 18 years to the company and took great pride in her work.
René and Robert went on to have three children: Daniel, Matthew, and Jayson, who were the light of her life. She was the ultimate boy mom, never afraid to get into the mud or muck with them. She loved them with her whole heart.
René was preceded in death by immediate family members: father, Keith Berger and sister Valerie Berger.
She is survived by her sons Daniel, Matthew (Jules) and Jayson Rischl; her mother, Laurenda Bates; and her sisters: Vickie (Jon) Drendel, and Rennell Brummel. René was a treasured Aunt to Amie (Donald) Kuntz, Ashley Angell and Austin Brummel. She was a genuine, gracious and supportive friend to many, including her small group friends and Resurrection Church family.
René will be deeply missed, as she showed up for not only those she loved, but also for those she had yet to meet. When her boys were grown, René began volunteering at CRI (a disaster response foundation). René made a profound impact in the program. She made her loved ones proud in early 2022 when René boldly traveled to a war ravaged Ukraine to deliver needed supplies and give of her time. She lived fearlessly, vibrantly, and with a heart for others. She truly shared the gifts God gave her with everyone she encountered and left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
In late 2022, René was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She trusted the Lord and fought with warrior determination and zeal. She wanted it known that she did not succumb to cancer but fully LIVED in spite of it. Between treatments, she traveled to Spain, took several adventurous trips, and LOVED her people fiercely and intentionally. Though she will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing she is at peace in the presence of her Savior, and that we will see her again in the "blink of an eye."

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026 from
12:00 PM (Noon) until a funeral service at 4:00 PM at DUNN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY, 1801 S. Douglas Road, Oswego, IL 60543.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Crisis Response International in honor of René's giving spirit.

For information: 630/554-3888 or www.dunnfuneralhome.com