Robert Koenigsfeld Obituary
Robert M. Koenigsfeld age 95 of New Hampton, IA, died Sunday, August 31, 2025, at New Hampton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 8, 2025, at Holy Family Parish, New Hampton with Rev. Chris Podhajsky celebrating the Mass. Interment will take place at St. Boniface Cemetery in Ionia.
Friends may greet the family from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 8, 2025, at Holy Family Parish, New Hampton prior to the Mass.
Robert Matthew "Bob" Koenigsfeld, a cherished husband, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully in the arms of his beloved wife, Margaret, on August 31, 2025, in his hometown of New Hampton, Iowa, at the age of 95. Born to Henry and Lucy (Klassen) Koenigsfeld on March 2, 1930, Bob was the embodiment of a life well-lived, marked by dedication, kindness, and a generous spirit.
Bob's early years were spent in the rural tranquility of New Hampton, where he walked to country school before continuing his education at St. Boniface in Ionia. His formative years were filled with the values of hard work and community, which would become the cornerstones of his life. It was at Matter's Ballroom in Decorah where Bob met the love of his life, Margaret Gerleman. Their love blossomed into a lifelong partnership when they married on November 21, 1964, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Calmar. Together, they built a home on the Koenigsfeld family homestead where Bob had grown up, nurturing not only their land but also their love for each other.
Farming was more than a profession for Bob; it was his passion. He and Margaret were recognized for their commitment to the land with a conservation award, honoring the improvements they had made to their farm. Bob's ingenuity and skill were evident in the way he tended to the land and the structures upon it, always finding ways to enhance and preserve the environment around him.
Bob was a man who could fix anything, a trait that endeared him to many. His generosity knew no bounds, as he was always willing to lend a hand to those in need. This helpful nature extended beyond his immediate circle, as he became a well-known and respected figure in his community.
Together with Margaret, Bob enjoyed a life full of adventure and exploration. They traveled extensively across the United States by car, bus, and cruise ship, including an unforgettable journey through the Panama Canal. The couple cherished their winters in southern Texas, where they made lasting friendships and memories. Bob was also an enthusiastic fan of stock car races, an interest that brought excitement and joy to his life.
A devout and loyal member of the Holy Family Parish, Bob's faith was a constant source of strength and guidance. His gentle demeanor and handy skills made him an indispensable member of his church community, where he was always ready to assist with repairs and projects.
Bob's legacy is one of unwavering generosity, gentle kindness, and a talent for making and fixing things that will be remembered by all who knew him. He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Margaret; his nephew, Alan (Julie) Flick of Raymond, IA; his nieces, Mary (Todd) Paine and Nancy Koenigsfeld, of Gilbertville, IA; sisters-in-law, Rita Gerleman of Cresco, IA, Mardell (Lawrence) Corcoran of Ettrick, WI, Betty (John) Pell of Urbandale, IA, and Phyllis Prybelski of Austin, MN; and a community of friends who were all touched by his warm presence.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Lucy; brother, Lloyd (Gladys) and their son, Tom; sister, Elaine (Lawrence) Flick and their daughter, Marilyn, and son, Steve; parents-in-law, Edmund and Cecelia Gerleman; brothers-in-law: Paul Gerleman, Patrick Weigel, Ron Prybelski; sisters-in-law, Marie (Ronald) Kreitzer, Edna (Bob) Franke.
Bob Koenigsfeld's life was a testament to the beauty of a simple, well-lived life, and he will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.
In lieu of flowers, Margaret requests memorials to be directed to Holy Family Parish, St. Croix Hospice, New Hampton Fire Department, or New Hampton EMS.
Published by KWWL on Sep. 2, 2025.