Obituaries / LJWorld.com

Obituaries

Paid family tribute

Bradley David Kohlman, 50, died of complications of cystic fibrosis April 25, 2011 at his home in Penngrove, CA. Brad was born August 12, 1960 in Albuquerque, NM. He grew up in Lawrence, KS, and graduated from Lawrence High School in 1978. Brad attended Kansas University in Lawrence and Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, CA.
Brad’s extensive career in the construction industry encompassed home construction, remodeling, interior finish, design and drafting. In 1978 Brad began work with Gene Fritzel Construction of Lawrence, KS, while attending the University of Kansas. After studying at Brooks Institute of Photography, Brad moved to Boulder, CO. He returned to Lawrence, KS in 1986 where he worked for both Gene Fritzel Construction and Joel Fritzel Construction and later started his own company, Avalon Building and Design. Because of his health, Brad and his companion Natasha moved to California in 1998 where he started BK Design, an architectural design and drafting company, working in various aspects of construction and design consulting until shortly before his death.
Brad is survived by many who loved him dearly; his beloved long-time companion, Natasha Roembach; his parents, David and Linda Kohlman from Colorado Springs; his brother, Jeff, sister-in-law, Dawn, and nephews, Austin and Alex from Centennial, CO; 7 uncles; 8 aunts; 14 cousins and many in his extended family. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, an uncle, and two cousins.
Brad lived his life with purpose, integrity, a deep sense of responsibility, and an amazing ability to live well beyond the limitations of his disease, never allowing cystic fibrosis to define him. He was a gentle and creative man who loved life and had a sense of humor often expressed in his photography, art, and writing. He loved animals, flowers, gardening, and reading. He was a rock climber, skier, and hiker.
Brad was a blessing to our lives. We all cherish him and will miss him deeply but find comfort in knowing that he is finally at peace.
An informal gathering to celebrate Brad’s life will be held Saturday, May 14 at 3 p.m. at the Pioneer Cemetery on the West Campus of the University of Kansas. If you wish to make a donation to honor Brad’s life, we would suggest a donation to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation-Colorado Chapter, 1355 S. Colorado Blvd.-Suite C-200, Denver, CO 80222.
Online condolences may be sent to www.warrenmcelwain.com.

This information was provided to the Journal-World as a paid tribute.