Gloria Ruth Kahl, 97, passed away on Wednesday (December 31, 2025) at home, with her daughter by her side.
Gloria was born on August 14, 1928 in Astoria, NY. She was married to the love of her life who thought of her as “the girl of his dreams,” Andrew W. Kahl, who preceded her in death on October 14, 2012.
Gloria devoted herself to being a loving wife, mother and grandmother.
Gloria is survived by three daughters, Heidi (Joseph) McMenamin of Hallstead, Pa., Jennifer (Robert) Goodman of Pottsville, Pa. and Melanie (David) Thorp of Andover; a daughter-in-law, Gayle Kahl; she was “Nanny” to five grandchildren, Matthew, Samantha (Sean), Andrew (Megan), Tammy (Chris) and Bridget; five great grandchildren, Lily, Mae, Miranda (Tim), Bradley (Dene) and Maggie; and three great-great grandchildren, Eliana, Genevieve, and Lennon.
In addition to her husband of 59 years, Gloria was predeceased by her parents, Irving and Ruth Wolfson, a son, Michael Kahl and a brother, Charles Wolfson.
Gloria’s gift of hospitality ensured that there was always an extra plate at the dinner table. She was very involved in her church, the Union United Methodist Church in East Northport, NY. She sang in the choir and performed in many church plays. She and her family hosted children from the Bushwick Parish in New York City each summer for many years. Gloria and Andy also welcomed numerous high school exchange students into their home from around the world.
Gloria was a gifted seamstress, quilter and stained-glass artist. She and Andy turned their love of stained-glass art into a business they named “The Back Porch”. Their greatest honor was creating custom made windows for their church in East Northport.
After her children were grown she was able to realize her dream of opening a Bed and Breakfast in Chester, Vermont. At “The Nesting Place” Gloria, Andy and their pet lamb, Penelope, welcomed many guests.
After moving to Andover, she and Andy felt welcomed by the community. They especially enjoyed the company of friends, old and new, in their home. She was blessed with the fellowship she shared with members of the Andover Presbyterian Church, Andover Lions Club, Andover Red Hats, The Book Club and the Andover Village Board.
She was an animal and nature lover with a special love of birds, favoring Cardinals above all.
Gloria was proud of earning her Associates of Science from Empire State College in 1998 at the age of 70. She became an Ordained Lay Pastor through Rose Ministries and was honored to perform several weddings.
To all that knew Gloria, she was cheerful, smiling, generous, loving and kind.
A Celebration of life is being planned by the family. Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery at a private family service.
Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Andover.
Memorial contributions in Gloria’s name may be made to Andover Volunteer Ambulance Corps, PO Box 726, Andover, NY 14806 or SPCA Serving Allegany County, 1374 State Road 19, Wellsville, NY 14895.
