Cynthia Ann Koenck

Cynthia Ann Koenck, affectionately known as "Koenck," passed away on September 18, 2024, just two days shy of her 75th birthday. Born on September 20, 1949, in Spencer, Iowa, to Virginia “Deda” and Mike Koenck, Cindy was a proud Iowa girl. Although she loved living in Colorado for most of her life, she remained an Iowa girl through and through, connected at heart to her roots and the community that shaped her.

In her childhood, she cherished summers spent at Arnold’s Park and Lake Okoboji where she enjoyed boating and fishing, two activities that would remain lifelong pleasures. She attended Spencer High School where she played on the women’s football team, the Knockers. “Knockers up and knock ‘em down!” she would cheer. Koenck was crowned La Posada Queen for her fun and charismatic personality, and her Spencer High friends remained an integral part of her life, a testament to her loyalty and love for those close to her.

Cindy continued her education at Augustana College where she met her dear friend Synneve Sigdestad (Jones). The Jones family became her chosen second family, and she cherished the relationship she had with Synneve and Charlie and their children and grandchildren. “Koenckie” held a special place in her heart for her treasured Godchildren: Ashley (Kyle Rogers), Charlie II (Michelle Jones), and Whitney Jones; and for her GrandGodchildren: Bode, Barrett, and Emmy Rogers, and Peyton, Graham, and Beckett Jones.

Cindy is survived by her sister, Karla, her niece, Gina, and her beloved cousins Shelly, Tim, and Deb. She is preceded in death by her loving parents, Mike and Deda, her stepfather, Erv, and her cousins Jo and Dwight, and we know they are waiting for her with open arms.

How to sum up a life that spread so much fun, laughter, joy, kindness, love, and generosity… Koenck's life was a gift to all who knew her. She loved to tell jokes and surrounded herself with people of good humor. She loved fishing and playing basketball, and she had an amazing hook shot which won her many games of PIG. She loved county fairs, was a whiz at scrabble, and her favorite food was her mom’s homemade mac and cheese. Cindy thrived in business and sales, enjoying the challenge and opportunity to connect with others. Her humor was legendary, and she had a natural ability to make people laugh. Her godchildren appreciated that she spoke with them like adults and broadened and brightened their world with her teasing and humor. Koenck had no enemies, only friends from babies to the elderly.

Among her closest circle were many cherished and lifelong friends, including the Joneses, Nancy and Dudley, Sue, Deb, Ann, Suze, Penny, Kim, Susie, Barb, Linda and Art, Ruth and Mark, Barbara and Peter, Lonnie, and the "Wims,” She had a close relationship with Synneve’s siblings for over 50 years: Joel and Barb, Kathy and Jack, Mickey and Bob. They, along with all who knew her, will remember her for her zest for life, generosity, and humorous loving spirit.

A lifelong Lutheran, she found great comfort in a firm belief that she would be surrounded by loved ones in Heaven. We are grateful she is now at peace, free from illness, hugging her parents in Heaven.

Koenck requested not to have a memorial service but rather a party. We will celebrate the life of a woman who touched so many with her warmth, humor, and kindness.

Rest in peace, Koenck—your light will continue to shine through the lives you brightened.