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Patrick Koenen Obituary
Pat Koenen, age 56, died unexpectedly of a heart attack on Tuesday morning, August 15, 2017, in Appleton. Pat was born in Milwaukee on March 20, 1961, the son of the late Frank Koenen and Margaret (Baurys) Koenen who resides in Sturgeon Bay. Pat received his undergraduate degree from Marquette University in 1983 and his JD degree from Marquette University Law School in 1986. It was at Marquette that he met his future wife, Kelly Whitford. The couple married on August 16, 1986 in Montana, and were blessed with three children. From 1988 to 1996, Pat practiced law with Hinshaw & Culbertson, LLP in Milwaukee, and in 1996 relocated to their Appleton office. Pat loved being outdoors, running, golfing, hiking, and boating; he especially enjoyed Door County and Glacier National Park in Montana. He was an ardent supporter of the Appleton YMCA, was a third-generation Green Bay Packer season ticket holder, and volunteered at the Fox Valley Warming Shelter. He and Kelly were longtime and faithful members of St. Joseph Catholic Church where Pat served on the parish council. He was also a member and past president of the St. Elizabeth Hospital Foundation Board of Directors. He and Kelly loved the mountains of Montana, and always shared the dream of retiring there someday.
His sudden passing leaves behind his loving wife of thirty-two years: Kelly Koenen of Appleton; three children: Brian Koenen of New York, Bradley Koenen of Appleton, Lauren Koenen of Appleton; and his faithful dog Scout; his mother: Margaret Koenen of Sturgeon Bay; a brother: Bill (Laura) Koenen of DeForest; three sisters: Laura (Mike) Korst of Naperville, Illinois; Suzie (David) Silvis of Oak Park, Illinois; and Jenny (Andy) Rash of Milwaukee; a brother-in-law: Tom (Sonja) Whitford of Anchorage, Alaska; his mother-in-law: Patricia Whitford of Cut Bank, Montana; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, associates, and friends. Pat was preceded in death by his father, Frank Koenen, his father-in-law, Tom Whitford, Sr., and a sister-in-law Debbie Whitford.
The funeral liturgy for Pat will be held at 4:00 PM on Friday, August 25, 2017 at ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH, 410 W. Lawrence Street in Appleton, with Fr. Jim Leary, OFM Cap. officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather at the Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior Street on Thursday from 4:00 PM until the time of a prayer service at 7:00 PM. Visiting hours will resume at the church on Friday from 2:00 PM until the hour of the service. Memorials may be directed to St. Joseph Catholic Church. For more information or to share a memory of Pat, please visit www.wichmannfargo.com
Pat will be remembered as a gentle, hard-working man who treasured his family above all things.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Patrick Koenen
Sponsored by Wichmann Funeral Home - Downtown Appleton.
David Zach
December 25, 2017
Just found out about Pat through the alumni posting on FB that I was scrolling through. I knew him in high school, as we had several classes and played sports together. He was friendly towards the less fortunate, helpful, and non judgemental towards others. He would write kind words towards others on their year books when nobody else would. God bless, RIP.
Jerry Witkowski
September 8, 2017
Could not believe when I heard today. What a great guy and attorney. Worked a couple big claims with Pat and always knew we were in the best hands.
My deepest sympathy.
I will never stop telling the story when Pat and Dan were in my sturgeon shack when we speared the one and only sturgeon I ever speared. What a fun day and what a great guy.
Walt and Milly Rugland
August 26, 2017
Dear Kelly and family, Our sympathy goes out to each of you. We so admired Patrick and his caring ways and commitment to improving the lives of others. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mary Jo Koenen
August 25, 2017
To all the family of Patrick, my deepest sympathy. I know you have many happy memories and may they carry you all through this difficult time. Love to all.
JoAnn Augare
August 25, 2017
I always loved Pat He was part of the family . He always treated me good.
Gray B Zischke
August 25, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I had the great privilege to work professionally with Pat over a decade ..... but my fondest memories were when our conversations turned to talking about family, current events, and life. An awesome man and a huge loss to so many....
Julie Hickinbotham & family
August 24, 2017
Kelly and family, we are so sad to hear of Pat's sudden passing. He was clearly a wonderful person who will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. Thinking of you as you go through this difficult time.
Eileen Haines
August 23, 2017
Words cannot express my sorrow for Kelly and the family of Pat. I became very friendly with Kelly during my volunteer work at St. E's. I had the pleasure of meeting Pat a few times and he was a gentle, kind man. Sending my love and prayers and know that he will always remain with you in your memories.
Jan Hopper
August 23, 2017
My deepest sympathy to the Koenen Family. Pat was a good guy and much too young to be taken away from you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
JOHN DOODY
August 22, 2017
SORRY FOR YOUR LOST. PAT WAS A NICE GUY JOHN AND BARB DOODY AND FRIENDS AT IESCO INC
Pam Meyer -Hinshaw/Chicago
August 21, 2017
Most heartfelt sympathies to the Koenen family. I recently started working with Pat on some new initiatives in the law firm. We had never met face to face, but we had communicated often and it was so apparent that Pat was 'different' in a wonderful way. He was very supportive, genuinely listened, cared and always asked 'how are YOU'. You knew he listened because he would ask for an update on the specific topic when we spoke again. To all of the Koenen family, I pray that your overwhelming tears will soon be replaced by smiles and laughter as you recall all the memories with Pat. It is especially hard at this time, and we don't understand why God called Pat home at such a young age; but remember that because of our faith, you, Pat and all believers will be reunited in Heaven for eternity..
Annette Johnson
August 21, 2017
Dear Kelly and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of great loss. May God hold you gently and lovingly in God's care. Blessings to you.
Chaplain Netty
August 20, 2017
Just heard the schocking news at Mass today - Kelly, Brad, Brian, and Lauren our hearts go out to you. You are in our prayers.
Bob, Gina, and Hunter Mayer
Brigette Breitenbach & Keith Harenda
August 20, 2017
We were so very sad to hear this news. We only met Pat recently and found him to be a wise, thoughtful and caring person. Our hearts go out to his family and children. You are all in our prayers today.
Fr. Larry
August 19, 2017
Kelly, Brian, Brad and Lauren, Fr. Jim called me with the sad news of Pat's sudden death last night. When I think of St. Joe's I immediately think of Pat. You have my support, love and prayers. We bantered back & forth but my respect was/is deep for both of you. May God bring you peace in the midst of your loss.
Joe Bonahoom
August 19, 2017
I'm not sure that words can express how shocked and saddened I am by this news. Pat was my roommate in law school and one of my very best friends. To this day I think back to our law school days and some of the time we spent together and I still end up belly laughing. He always had my back, he got me a job at Kluwin Dunphy and Hankin as A law clerk while in law school, and it was while employed there that I met my wife. Pat and I met Kelly at about the same time while in law school. Kelly, He was the absolute best but then I know you know that. God bless you big guy, even though we didn't see each other that much over the years I'm really going to miss you.
Debbie Williams Bestow
August 19, 2017
Oh my. So very sorry. Such good memories of Pat and your whole family from your hinswood years. Just devastating news. May you all find peace and comfort in loving memory.
CR
August 19, 2017
May God rest your soul.
Jane Windels
August 18, 2017
Dearest Kelly and family. I am so sorry to read about the passing of your loved husband and father. Although I only met Pat once when he paid a visit to Kelly at the hospital gift shop where we both volunteer I could tell from that short visit that he was indeed a very special person. I am so sad for your loss. My prayers are with you Kelly, and your family.
Tonya L. Dederinghttp://www.wichmannfargo.com/obituary/Patrick-
August 18, 2017
Kelly and family, My deepest sympathy on the passing of your wonderful husband and father. Pat has meant to much to St. Elizabeth Hospital Foundation the past many years and we will all miss him very much. He was a very supportive and strong Board Chairperson and talked so passionately about his family. You will remain in my thoughts and prayers. ~Tonya Dedering
Amy Fine Juodagalvis
August 18, 2017
I have been a friend of Susan's since the late '80's and had met Pat on several occasions (up at Door Co, Susan's wedding & Franks funeral). I am so sorry to hear of his sudden passing. Please pass my condolences to Pats family, Peggy as well as the Koenen siblings. My heart pours out to you all.
Marissa Delinks
August 18, 2017
I am so very sorry for your loss. I will remember Pat for his warm smile and the kindness he showed to everyone. A remarkable person.
Barb O'Brien and Brian Smigelski
August 18, 2017
Kelly and family, We are so sorry to hear about Pat. He was a great guy and we have fond memories from law school. Please know our love and prayers are with you and your family.
Sharalee Quade - Hinshaw/Appleton
August 18, 2017
I worked for Pat for 12 years as his paralegal. From the time I started working for him, I was so very thankful for his kind, encouraging and appreciative personality. He was truly the most hard-working and dedicated attorney I have ever known. Pat was such a determined person and never gave up, which is one of his many traits I hope to utilize in my own life, both professionally and personally. One thing I will always truly appreciate about Pat is that he always told me to put family first. No matter how busy he was, he would think to check in about something that may have been troubling in my own personal life, which truly demonstrated what a caring person he was. It was truly an honor and pleasure to have known and worked for Pat Koenen. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends and all who mourn his passing.
Fredric L. Hildebrand, Jr., M.D.
August 18, 2017
I am sad to hear this news. I had the privilege of working with Pat on the St. Elizabeth Foundation board and new him to be a consummate professional as well as a kind and compassionate man. His dedication to the hospital and to patient care inspired all who worked with him. My deepest sympathies to the Koenen family.
John Weedon - Hinshaw/Jacksonville
August 18, 2017
Pat was such a great guy ... very kind and very easy to talk to. My heart sank when I heard the news of his passing, and I'm still shocked. As great as he was to me when I first met him, a new associate all the way down in Florida, I can only imagine how great he was to his family. My deepest sympathy and condolences. God Bless you, Pat.
Lisa Munch - Hinshaw/Rockford
August 18, 2017
Pat was one of the nicest guys you could meet. While we worked in offices distant to each other, as a member of his practice group, he was available, approachable and kind. The many tributes to Pat clearly speak for themselves. My condolences and prayers to the family.
Joseph Fasi
August 18, 2017
This news stunned me and I want to reach out to Kelly and to his children, Brian, Bradley and Lauren. I worked with your Pat at Hinshaw from 1990 to 1999. We remained connected when he went to run the Appleton office as we often did the same types of cases. Pat will be remembered for being a man of God, a man of integrity, an intelligent man with a warm heart who reached out to all. I have so many good and fun memories of Pat and I know that he will be with his family always. My deepest sympathies to you and know that you all and Pat are on my prayer list. God Bless you all.
Audrey Busch
August 18, 2017
Kelly & family - My thoughts & prayers are with you at this difficult time. I had the fortunate blessing to get to know Pat while on Parish Council with him. Very kind & wonderful person who will be missed by many. May the knowledge of his kindness & love to all bring you comfort.
August 18, 2017
The Van Lieshout family sends their thoughts and prayers to the Koenen family. Pat was a stand up guy. His passing is a shock to all of us. His children are a wonderful legacy and his spirit lives on in each of them.
Dave, Megan and John Van Lieshout
Molly Hinshaw
August 18, 2017
Dear Koenen Family
Our Family is grieving with you at the loss of Pat. We will always remember him as a uniquely and incredibly kind, welcoming, family-oriented, great man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, the Hinshaw Family (Molly, Louis, Audrey, and Louis)
fernando arguelles luis
August 18, 2017
Muy tristes por tan enorme pérdida , os mandamos desde oviedo un abrazo enorme y nuestras oraciones .Trasmite a su mujer e hijos nuestro más sentido pésame Fernando , Victoria y Fer
Donna Fahrenkrug
August 18, 2017
Prayers are with you as you face this huge loss. Patrick will be missed. May you find comfort in the Lord to help guide you in the future.
-Donna Fahrenkrug.
Jean Schuch Furrer
August 18, 2017
Love and prayers from the Schuch family. We had the pleasure of knowingPat during his HIgh School years on the track team. He was a wonderful young man.
Laura Korst
August 17, 2017
I would like to share some reflections on how Pat has been a source of great pride and admiration for our family. After graduating near the top of his law school class, Pat distinguished himself as a brilliant and highly regarded insurance defense attorney. After joining the firm of Hinshaw & Culbertson, he became the partner-in-charge at the firm's Appleton office. The bio of Pat on the firm's website speaks for itself. Not only did he successfully litigate and resolve numerous high-level lawsuits, he also gave lectures and wrote an award winning article. What Pat cherished most in life was his family. He was happiest when spending time with Kelly and his kids. He was so very proud of Brian, Bradley, and Lauren. Pat had an uncommon and enviable zest for life. He was the kind of guy who made you feel that wherever he was, that was the place to be. His expansive circle of friends are a testament to his infectiously joyful and compassionate personality. A life-long Wisconsinite, Pat was the consummate cheesehead. He was an avid Packers fan, and he dabbled in activities such as curling and ice fishing. Door County was one of his favorite places -- he loved boating, swimming in the bay, riling up the family for the annual Thanksgiving "Paddle Bowl" football game, hiking on the bluff, watching the sunset. How fortunate we are we to be blessed with the memories, the inspiration, and the lasting legacy of Pat's enthusiasm for life. Thanks for being you, Pat
Chris & Kerry Lea Fellers
August 18, 2017
We are so very sorry to learn of Patricks sudden passing. We send our sympathy and love. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Jim Pirages, Hinshaw & Culbertson/Rockford
August 17, 2017
My deepest sympathies to Pat's wife, Kelly, to his children and to his entire family on this tremendous loss. Pat was a wonderful partner and friend. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Carolyn Catalano
August 18, 2017
We are so so sorry to hear this news. I've always seen the strength that Pat had for his family. What a wonderful man he was. I watched him walk Jenny down the aisle.. He seemed to be there for all of them. We are so so sad to hear of his passing. Wishing your family grace and strength during this difficult time. You were so lucky to have such a wonderful man.. Carolyn, Jason, Caleb and Harvey
Brenda Bird
August 17, 2017
Prayers for my cousin Kelly and family never got the chance to really meet Patrick prayer that he is at peace and with the lord take care and god bless
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