SPIROL Family Remembers Hans Koehl

SPIROL has announced the passing of Hans Koehl. Hans passed on November 30, 2023, at the age of 88.

Hans’ vision, dedication, and passion led to the transformation of SPIROL from being a small, family-owned business located in Northeast Connecticut into a world-renowned manufacturing company with locations on four continents and in 13 countries. Hans retired from active management of SPIROL as chairman and CEO in 2004 after 45 years of dedicated service, yet he remained a steadfast leader as chairman of the Holding Board of Directors, managing director of SPIROL Europe, and as trustee and founding member of the SPIROL Charitable Foundation.

Born in Stolberg, Germany, to the late Herman Koehl and Maria Altdorf Koehl, Hans immigrated with his mother, father and two sisters, Gerda and Emmy, to the United States in 1948 and settled in Woodstock, Connecticut.

Shortly after starting school in the U.S., Hans quickly mastered the English language and skipped ahead two grades within his first year at The Woodstock Academy. After graduating from Killingly High School in Dayville, Connecticut, Hans went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with distinction from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in 1956, and his Juris Doctorate from Stanford University in 1958. While at WPI, Hans was a member of the men’s soccer team, and he participated in Masque (student led dramatic theater organization), the Peddler (yearbook for the graduating class) and the Debating Club. He was also a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity, where he served as president his senior year.

A brilliant engineer and keen businessman, Hans joined Connecticut Engineering and Manufacturing Company (now called SPIROL) in 1959 after passing the bar in both California and Connecticut. Hans was elected executive vice president and counsel in 1962 and president in 1965 before becoming chairman and CEO in 1969.

Governor M. Jodi Rell proclaimed August 26, 2004, as Hans H. Koehl Day in the State of Connecticut on the occasion of his being honored by employees of SPIROL. The governor stated: “Throughout his tenure at SPIROL, Hans Koehl has displayed professionalism, an outstanding work ethic, and a commitment to excellence that are truly appreciated. He has been an inspirational leader and a role model for all citizens to follow.”

In support of his commitment to education and passion for engineering, Hans spearheaded the establishment of the SPIROL Scholarship Program, which has awarded over $1 million to local students dedicated to community service who pursue a degree in engineering, basic science and manufacturing technology. His unwavering financial support of local schools funded the expansion of facilities and the implementation of new programs in support of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) at The Woodstock Academy, Killingly High School, Ellis Tech, and Quinebaug Valley Community College.

Hans was an amazing man, and his impact is far reaching beyond his unparalleled contributions to SPIROL. Firmly dedicated in giving back to the local community, Hans held several directorships, served on many boards, and was active in many clubs.

In addition to his lifelong and distinguished achievements, it is his impact on the people in his life that meant the most to him.  Hans was a humble and inspirational leader, and he motivated everyone to always do their best.  He played a critical role in the professional success and personal happiness of thousands of people.  He was kind, exceedingly generous, and gave freely of his time to mentor and enrich the lives of those who knew him by sharing the lessons he learned throughout his storied life and career.

Hans was a second father, a mentor, a coach and a friend to many. His incredible entrepreneurial spirit was an inspiration, his dedication in giving to our community admirable, and he will live on in the legacy that he leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Hans Koehl to the CT Audubon Society; PO Box 11, Pomfret Center, Connecticut 06259 or to Friends of Assisi Food Pantry at 77 Water Street, Killingly, Connecticut 06239.