Ruth DeYoung Kohler
1941–2020 (age 79)
Biography
Ruth DeYoung Kohler championed the arts and Wisconsin’s storied heritage through decades of philanthropic leadership, guiding organizations that celebrated craftsmanship, design, and cultural preservation. Her thoughtful stewardship ensured that artisans, historians, and educators had the resources to keep regional traditions alive.
She was also known for her warm hospitality and generous support of civic initiatives, encouraging creativity wherever she traveled. The institutions she bolstered continue to reflect her belief in the transformative power of culture.