Gordon “Gordy” Koeninger, 94, of Tomah, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Close To Home.
He was born on January 17, 1931, to Clarence and Augusta (Buchholz) Koeninger. On August 19, 1967, he was united in marriage to Darlene Schroeder, and together they shared 56 years of marriage. Darlene and Gordy built a life of love and hard work while farming in the Township of Oakdale, where they raised their four children.
The Koeninger household was always filled with the joyful bustle of family life—cookouts, pool parties, family vacations, and even the everyday chores often became adventures marked by laughter and unforgettable shenanigans.
Gordy was a hardworking and dedicated farmer, milking at least 42 cows daily and tending to fields of corn and alfalfa. His passion for farming was unwavering; even after a serious accident that cost him fingers, he never slowed down. He was a founding member of the Oakdale Credit Union and on their board for many years. He was also on the Township of Oakdale board and numerous other boards and councils.
A faithful member of St. Paul Ev. Lutheran Church in Tomah, Gordy lived his life grounded in faith and family. Sundays were reserved for worship and time with loved ones.
He will be remembered for his quick wit, lighthearted jokes, and the gift of bringing smiles to those around him. Gordy’s presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his children, Ann (Robert) Wappler of Tomah, Betty (Marlin) Prell of Kendall, Roger A. (Elaine) Schroeder, Jr. of Tomah, and Ruth (James) Krueger of La Crosse; grandchildren, Charles (Lynz) Prell, Timothy Prell and Melissa Prell (fiancé, Alex Shaffer), Reena (Brent) Berndt, Caitlin (Sean) Krueger-Conway, Benjamin Krueger, Cherryl (Jerry) Duncan; great grandchildren, Everly, Finnegan, Priya, Jude, and Ella. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene Koeninger; great grandson, Noah; siblings, Leonard (Iona) Koeninger, George (Mary) Koeninger; sister and brother-in-law, Gloria (Duane) Martin.
A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday October 7, 2025, 11:00 AM, at St. Paul Ev. Lutheran Church, 525 Superior Ave. Tomah. Pastor Mark Kahrs will officiate. Burial will be in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Tomah.
Relatives and friends are invited for a time of visitation on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the church, 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM and on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 10:00 AM until the time of service.
Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com.
Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home
