It’s hard to believe that Natalie Black Kohler is no longer with us. She left this world far too soon at the age of 74, surrounded by the love of her family at her home in Oostburg, Wisconsin. Born on December 19, 1949, in Bakersfield, California, to Eugene and Ann Black, she was a remarkable woman whose energy and passion touched everyone she met.
Natalie wasn’t just any businesswoman; she was a force to be reckoned with. Her career at Kohler Co. spanned over three decades, during which she played a pivotal role in transforming the company's global image. Starting as General Counsel, she navigated complex legal waters, ensuring Kohler’s legal standing while also helping guide its expansion through strategic mergers and acquisitions. But it was her vision for marketing that truly set her apart. As Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications, she elevated the KOHLER brand to new heights, making it synonymous with luxury and innovation.
One of the most unforgettable aspects of Natalie was her ability to balance work with the things she cherished most—her family and her furry companions. Her dogs, Chella, Reed, and Roe, were her constant companions, but her love for her husband, Herbert V. Kohler, Jr., was unmatched. Together, they were a dynamic duo who not only built a thriving business but also shared a zest for life and adventure. Their partnership was a testament to what true companionship looks like—two people who were inseparable in both their personal and professional lives.
Her legacy extends beyond the boardroom. Natalie was deeply committed to giving back to her community. Through the Black Spring Foundation, she championed causes close to her heart, including literacy, education, hunger relief, and animal welfare. She believed strongly in empowering others and instilled this value in her step-grandchildren, involving them in her philanthropic efforts from a young age.
Her contributions didn’t stop there. Natalie’s impact on Kohler Co. was monumental. Under her leadership, the KOHLER brand became a household name, thanks to her innovative marketing strategies and bold campaigns. One of her crowning achievements was the creation of “The Beacon,†a stunning global communications headquarters that stands as a physical embodiment of her career-long mission to elevate the KOHLER brand.
Natalie’s intellect was legendary. Always curious and eager to learn, she earned degrees from prestigious institutions like Stanford University and Harvard Business School. She was a lawyer by training, having graduated magna cum laude from Marquette University Law School in 1978. Her sharp mind and tenacity made her a respected figure in the legal and business worlds, and she held numerous positions on boards across the country.
Though Natalie is gone, her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor her memory can contribute to the Black Spring Foundation or the Sheboygan County Food Bank. A private service has been held, with burial at Woodland Cemetery in Kohler.
To read more about Natalie’s incredible journey and contributions, visit CelebrateNatalieBlackKohler.com. Her family and friends will miss her dearly, but they take comfort in knowing that her spirit will continue to inspire future generations.
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