Bill Koenig, 56

William “Bill” Koenig passed away on Oct. 27, 2016, at his home in Kalispell, surround by his loving wife and children, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

“Billy” was born on June 22, 1960, to Bob and Marlene Koenig in Kalispell. He was the oldest of four children and from an early age took pleasure in working alongside his family on Koenig Brothers Farm. He attended Trinity Lutheran elementary school and then graduated from Flathead High School in 1978.

After high school, Bill continued to pursue his love of farming and completed several years of study at Montana State University in the College of Agriculture, remaining an unabashed Bobcat fan all his years. Throughout his schooling, he was active in both FFA and Alpha Gamma Rho.

Bill returned to farming in the Flathead Valley and soon met Karen Sorensen, a “city girl” from Minnesota whom he married on Aug. 2, 1986. Together they had five children and were blessed with 30 years of marriage. His steadfast love and commitment to his family will be forever cherished.

As a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Kalispell, Bill served wholeheartedly in various roles over the years, ranging from board chairman to pancake chef and everything in between. His dedication to service was also seen in his investment in youth programs; whether that be cooking for Young Life, organizing school history trips, or teaching Sunday school.

Even while facing cancer, Bill sought to live his life as a testament to God’s goodness.

“His faithful presence and generous heart will be missed, but celebrated as he finds eternal peace and healing with his heavenly Father.”

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

He was preceded in death by his father Bob Koenig.

He is survived by his wife, Karen; their children, Ted, Margaret, Ann, Tim and Matthew; his mother, Marlene (Gene) Toepke; his sister, Mary (Mark) Smith; his brothers, Bob (Barb) Koenig, and Kelly (Pam) Koenig; his uncle and aunt, Herb and Vonnie Koenig; as well as many friends and family.

In lieu of gifts, please send contributions to Trinity Lutheran School or Child Care at 400 W. California St, Kalispell, MT 59901.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Nov. 12 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Kalispell, with a lunch reception to follow.