Colleagues of murdered father of three lead GoFundMe efforts to support his children
Kenny Pohlman with his children (from left), Tyler, Jenna and Brianna. A GoFundMe has been set up for the Pohlman kids in the wake of their father’s murder.
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Friends and family of Kenny Pohlman, a 53-year-old man murdered in his St. James home last week, are asking for help in supporting Pohlman’s children as they begin to navigate life without their dad. Pohlman and his partner Kelly Coppola were allegedly shot to death by Coppola’s ex-husband on August 28.
Pohlman, a son, brother and father to three, lost his wife to cancer in 2007. A GoFundMe for his children – Brianna (25), Tyler (21) and Jenna (14) – was set up by Pohlman’s colleagues at Converged Technology Group one week ago. It is currently $20,000 shy of the fund’s $150,000 goal; all donations “go directly to Brianna, Tyler and Jenna, ensuring that Kenny’s children receive the support and stability they need during this trying time,” read a statement provided to the Journal by Northport resident Steve Drgon and Leo Galletta, co-owners of the Islandia-based technology group Pohlman worked at for 18 years.
Drgon and Galletta have known Pohlman for about 25 years, and considered him a cherished friend and colleague.
“Kenny was far more than a valued member of the Converged Technology Group team; he was a true embodiment of positivity, strength and unwavering support,” they said. “Kenny faced life’s challenges with remarkable courage and resilience. His positive attitude and competitive spirit drove him to overcome adversity time and again, always pushing forward with grace and determination. Kenny was always there for others – an ever-present source of encouragement who always gave 110%.”
According to reports, Pohlman and Coppola began dating about a year and a half ago and quickly fell in love; they were sharing a home together at the time of their deaths. Pohlman and his children welcomed Coppola and her 15-year-old daughter into their lives with open arms.
A large crowd of mourners, including Pohlman’s parents, siblings and children, packed St. Elizabeth Church in Melville this past Tuesday, September 3. Pohlman was the oldest of four children. Family members who spoke at his funeral described Pohlman as a friend to all, whose smile and positive attitude were contagious and whose support for his children was unwavering.
“As a father, Kenny's love was profound and evident in every aspect of his life. His children were his pride and joy, and his dedication to them was boundless. As a friend and colleague, his caring and thoughtful nature touched everyone who knew him. He had a unique way of making people feel valued and heard, and his kindness made every moment spent with him meaningful,” Drgon and Galletta told the Journal.
“Kenny’s absence leaves a space that can never be filled. His legacy of warmth, generosity, and strength will continue to inspire us all. We are profoundly grateful for the time we shared with him and will cherish his memory forever.”
In an effort to support Pohlman’s family “during this unimaginable time,” Drgon and Galletta are continuing to spread word about the GoFundMe. “We share in your sorrow and are here to offer our love and support,” they said. “Kenny will be deeply missed, but his spirit and the impact he made will always remain with us.”
The GoFundMe for Kenny Pohlman's children can be found here.
