Michigamme, MI - Gary W. Koenig, age 70, Michigamme Township resident passed away unexpectedly June 30, 2024.

Gary was born in Marquette, MI on July 27, 1953 a son of Stanley and Pearl Elizabeth (Hill) Koenig. He graduated a proud "Redmen" from Marquette Senior High School in 1971.

Gary worked for CCI from 1974-2018. Retiring from the Tilden mine in 2018 after 44 years. After retiring Gary moved to Michigamme, MI where he and the love of his life created a beautiful home on Lake Michigamme.

Gary was an avid Packer, Redwing, Lakers and Spartans fan. When not watching these sports on his massive TV, you could find him cheering..or yelling at the refs, on the sidelines of his grandkids sports teams. Gary (Papa) always bought the best basketball shoes for his favorite little ballers. Gary also was very involved with politics. He strongly believed in justice for all people and was a strong Democrat and union supporter. While working at the mine he was very involved in his local union and now that he was retired, he was a strong supporter in his children's Postal Union and Teaching Union.

Gary is survived by the love of his life Elizabeth (Howe) Koenig, whom he married on December 30, 2006 his children; Peter Koenig of Big Bay, Melissa Derocha of Omaha NE, Desiree' (Eric) Lauritsen of Pelkie, MI, Jonathan Koenig of Ishpeming, MI, Daniel (Miranda) Derocha of Sheboygan, WI; and Bernard (Jenna Drake) Maxfield or Phoenix, AZ; 10 grandchildren; Jaden, Daniel, Lynn, Joey, Noah, Joy, Brantley, Jadyn , Bubbie and Elizabeth. His brothers John ( Joanne) Koenig of NY, Byron ( Diane) Koenig of Caspian, MI. His sisters, Heidi (Sam) Marston or PA, Kathy Koenig of Marquette, MI and sister-in-law Kim Koenig of Marquette, MI, many aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and cousins as well as his Great Pyrenees "Willow" and mini Aussie "Sage".

Gary was preceded in death by his parents Stanley Koenig and Pearl Elizabeth (Hill) Koenig, his brother Paul Koenig and sister Sandy Koenig, cousin "Cuz" Bob Dutmer, his mother and father-in law Myles ( Betty) Howe and over his lifetime many furry children Nipper, Kasey, Karley, Alex, Ruby, Maggie, Minnie and Bella.

Per Gary's wishes cremation will take place.  The Family will greet relatives and friends from 1:00 – 2:00pm on Friday, July 5, 2024, at the Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Champion where a memorial service will be held at 2:00pm with Pastor Paul Peterson to officiate. A coffee and dessert social time will follow the services in the church hall.

He loved all his grandkids so much and would literally give everything he could to see them smile, hear them laugh or get a hug.

Papa, we promise to always shut off the lights, not throw away pop cans "those are worth 10 cents you know", play chess, vote blue, support the union, not stand in the fridge with door open, watch how much we swear and to always offer to help someone whenever we are able.

Your kindness and amazing heart will carry on for many generations.

Many knew you as Gary, but the lucky ones got to call you their Husband, Papa, Dad, Brother, Uncle, Cousin or Friend.

Gary's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.