Celebrating

Natalie Black
Kohler

1949 - 2024

Holding back was never in Natalie Black Kohler's nature.

Whether she was fiercely protecting Kohler Co.’s interests worldwide, assertively promoting the KOHLER brand, supporting the Kohler Foundation and other charitable endeavors, or seeking adventures with her husband, Herbert V. Kohler, Jr., Natalie met life’s joys and challenges head on – with unbridled tenacity, creativity and persistence.

Kohler Co.’s broad global expansion, brand leadership ascension and dominance, and the thousands of lives positively impacted by her philanthropic undertakings, are the undeniable results of Natalie’s zeal, talent and drive. Natalie will be remembered by friends, family, and colleagues for her sharp mind and sharper wit, as an individual who was determined, purposeful and unwavering in her principles.

The source of my difficulties has always been the same: an inability to accept what to others seems natural, and an irresistible tendency to voice opinions no one wants to hear…”

– Isabel Allende

A Partner in Life, in Business, and in Philanthropy

Most memorable about Natalie to her family was her devotion to those closest to her: her dogs, Chella, Reed and Roe, who were second only to her husband, Herbert V. Kohler, Jr. Natalie Black Kohler and Herbert V. Kohler, Jr., married in 1988, were as formidable in their professional endeavors as in their personal lives and their charitable pursuits, leaving broad impact on all the lives they touched.

Matched in their will, wit, and charm, Natalie and Herbert’s time together was larger-than-life, as they steered Kohler Co. into an era of unprecedented growth, imparted the importance of stewardship on their younger generations, gave generously to their communities, and traveled the world together seeking one adventure after another. Their families will remember their spirits, like their innumerable personal and professional achievements, as irrevocably and affectionately entwined.

A Partner in Life, in Business, and in Philanthropy

Advertising & Brand Builder

When Natalie took the helm of Kohler Communications, Kohler Co. sat in a distant third place in the all-important advertising category of Combined Brand Awareness. It was the only challenge she needed to ignite a fire that never dwindled.

Corporate Leader & Counselor

No doubt, Natalie’s degrees from Stanford University and the Marquette University Law School laid the foundation for her successful career, but her acute ability to focus, push forward and win came from within.

Friends Far and Wide

Whether through personal, professional, or charitable connections, Natalie’s expressions of love and loyalty for her friends were unmistakable.

Family Connections

Natalie very much appreciated her family. Beginning with her parents and sisters, and all the way to her stepchildren, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She found great joy and love in their shared experiences and relationships