Speakers Pay Tribute to Kohl’s Extraordinary Life
At the memorial held at the Fiserv Forum, where the Bucks play, esteemed speakers gathered to remember the life and legacy of Herb Kohl, the renowned philanthropist and former senator. Strategist David Axelrod lightened the mood by joking about Kohl ordering up a snowstorm to dampen attendance. However, he emphasized that the purpose of the event was not to mourn Kohl, but to celebrate his extraordinary life.
A Lifelong Friendship Remembered
Bud Selig, former Major League Baseball Commissioner, spoke of his lifelong friendship with Kohl. The two had met as 6-year-olds in grade school in Milwaukee and continued to meet weekly for lunch until Kohl’s passing. Selig spoke fondly of Kohl’s dedication to Milwaukee, particularly demonstrated by his purchase of the Bucks franchise in 1985 to prevent it from leaving the city.
A Philanthropic Legacy
Kohl’s nephew, Dan Kohl, highlighted his uncle’s exceptional memory for not only the names of his employees but also their spouses and children. Despite his numerous accomplishments over his 24 years as a senator, Kohl never boasted about them. Dan Kohl emphasized that Kohl’s greatest legacy lies in the scholarships he provided to teachers and children across the state, along with his various other philanthropic endeavors.
A Gathering of Diverse Attendees
The memorial drew attendees from various walks of life, including U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, U.S. Representative Gwen Moore, Governor Tony Evers, Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Rebecca Dallet, state Representative Greta Neubauer, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, and Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson. Dozens of Kohl’s relatives from across the country and even Israel also came to pay their respects.
Kohl, who served in the Senate from 1988 to 2012, left a lasting impact on the state of Wisconsin and its people. His selfless dedication to his community and his profound generosity will be remembered for years to come.