Terry Kohler, owner of the world-renown North Sails from 1984-2014, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy that the sailing community will not soon forget. He was a fixture in the wider sailing sphere as a generous supporter of the sport. Terry promoted women’s sailing and worked with the U.S. Women’s Olympic Team in 2012. He also was critical to the creation of the Sail Sheboygan Sailing Center and the non-profit Sailing Education Associate of Sheboygan (SEAS).
Terry bought North Sails from Lowell North upon North’s retirement in 1984. Terry, a graduate from MIT, saw the potential in embracing technology in the sailmaking industry and was passionate about keeping North Sails an international leader in sailmaking. It was under his guidance that North Sails introduced 3D sailmaking and the technologically advanced manufacturing and logistics systems that have helped set the company apart. In 2008, Terry bought North Sails and Southern Spars under North Technology Group (NTG). NTG has since grown into a diverse family of companies serving marine and manufacturing markets worldwide.
Terry is remembered as a visionary community and business leader. He is survived by his wife Mary and family.
