We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Natalie Black Kohler on Tuesday, September 10. Natalie was an extraordinary person whose generosity and compassion for those in need have had a profound impact on countless individuals and families in our community.
Sheboygan County Food Bank received generous support from Natalie over the past decade. Her contributions fueled our mission to ensure that no one in our community went hungry and allowed us to develop exponentially as an organization. In 2022, as a direct result of her unwavering dedication we launched our Herb Kohler & Natalie Black Community Cafe that’s open over the lunch hours, six days a week, for the homeless community and anyone else in need. Throughout this year so far, the Community Cafe has grown to serve an average of 1,600 warm meals each month and, during the summer when many parents bring their children who don’t have access to free school meal programs, sometimes reached well over 100 people in one a day. Moreover, Natalie’s thoughtful generosity has been significant in making sure local families have access to nutritious food and a sense of hope during their most challenging times – including navigating the hardships of a global pandemic.
“I will never forget personally witnessing Natalie’s compassion for others when she visited our food bank and Community Cafe”, said Patrick Boyle, Executive Director of Sheboygan County Food Bank. “Her insights were extremely pertinent and it was clear that she deeply cared about our community. Natalie’s heart of gold will continue to inspire us at the food bank where her memory and generosity will not be forgotten.”
We’re forever grateful for everything Natalie did for our neighbors facing hunger and her legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to build a more food-secure Sheboygan County. It’s people like Natalie who remind us of the power of kindness and the difference one person can make in the lives of many. Her memory will live on in the work we do every day and in the hearts of all who knew her.
If you would like to learn more about Natalie’s legacy or sign her guestbook, please visit her tribute website.
