Mary Lou Koenig

Mary Lou Koenig

June 27, 1948 – December 21, 2025

A Life Beautifully Lived

It is with deep love and heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Mary Lou Koenig, who left this world on December 21, surrounded by the care and affection of those who cherished her most.

Born on June 27, 1948, in Olathe, Colorado, Mary Lou was one of fifteen children born to Cleofos and Evarista (Eva) Marquez Vasquez. Growing up in such a large and lively family shaped her generous spirit, her resilience, and her deep appreciation for togetherness. Though many of her siblings preceded her in passing, she is lovingly survived by three of her sisters—Phyllis Patton, Jean Garcia, and Margery Albright—one brother, Tony Vasquez and several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her devoted husband, Bud Koenig, who shared her life, her faith, and her heart.

Her Family, Her Heart

Mary Lou was the proud mother of two sons, Lenny and Trinity Rivera. She endured the heartbreaking loss of Trinity, who preceded her in death, and is survived by her son Lenny.

Her joy multiplied through her grandchildren: Christopher Rivera, Mikayla Stocker, Andy Peterson, and Kirsten Peterson. And her heart grew even more full with the arrival of her great‑grandchildren: Everly Stocker, Colton Stocker, and James Roletto.

A Woman of Faith and Strength

Mary Lou’s faith in God was a guiding force throughout her life, and it was a devotion she and Bud held closely together. Their shared belief shaped their home, their values, and the way they cared for others. It sustained them through challenges and enriched the joy they found in family and community

A Life Filled With Joy

Family was the center of Mary Lou’s world. She poured her heart into every generation, finding her greatest joy in the people she loved. She cherished time outdoors—whether it was a simple walk, a family gathering under open skies, or soaking in the beauty of nature around her.

In her younger years, she played softball, a passion that grew into a lifelong love of sports. She supported athletes in her family across all generations, cheering proudly from the sidelines all the way through to her great‑grandbabies.

Mary Lou devoted herself to creating a home filled with love, laughter, and the kind of steady presence that made others feel grounded. Whether through her work, her hobbies, or the countless small acts of care she offered daily, she touched lives in ways that will be remembered for generations.

Celebration of Life

A Rosary will be held at 7pm on Friday, January 2nd, at Callahan‑Edfast Mortuary*.

A Catholic Mass honoring Mary Lou’s life will take place at 11am on Saturday, January 3rd at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church*, where family and friends are invited to gather in prayer, remembrance, and love.

Following the interment in Whitewater Hill Cemetery, a potluck gathering at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church will be held for family and friends to come together, share food, and continue celebrating Mary Lou’s life.

Forever in Our Hearts

Mary Lou’s memory will continue to shine through the people she loved, the values she instilled, and the kindness she spread throughout her life.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

v Callahan-Edfast Mortuary

o 2515 Patterson Rd, Grand Junction, CO 81505

v St Joseph’s Catholic Church

o 230 N 3rd Street, Grand Junction, CO 81501