Wyvonne Dolores Schrank Kohler, a 45-year-old executive secretary at Western Transfer Company in Grand Prairie, Texas, tragically lost her life on August 9, 1982. She was killed during a violent rampage carried out by John Parish, a 46-year-old truck driver who was upset over a pay dispute with his employer. Parish, armed with three guns, went on a 25-minute shooting spree, killing six people, including Kohler, and wounding three others before being shot and killed by police.
The incident began at approximately 8:00 a.m. when Parish entered the Western Transfer Company building to discuss his payment dispute with his supervisor, Eddie Ulrich. When the discussion did not go as Parish wanted, he opened fire, killing Ulrich, Martin Moran, and Moody Smith. Parish then stole a truck and drove to the office of GM International Inc., where he killed Wyvonne Kohler and wounded two other employees, Ruth James and Burnett Hart.
After leaving GM International, Parish continued his rampage at the Jewel T warehouse, killing Dave Bahl and Rick Svoboda, and wounding Robert Sarabia. He then led police on a high-speed chase through Grand Prairie, which ended when he crashed into a building and was subsequently shot and killed by police.
The tragic events of that day left a lasting impact on the community, and the investigation revealed that Parish had been experiencing personal and professional difficulties leading up to the shooting. Despite the chaos and violence, the quick response of law enforcement helped to bring the situation under control and prevent further loss of life.
Wyvonne Kohler's death was a senseless act of violence that highlighted the devastating consequences of unresolved disputes and personal grievances. Her memory lives on through the love and respect of those who knew her, and the community continues to remember the lives lost on that fateful day.
