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Kathy Jo Koenen

9/26/1967 - 2/9/2026

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Obituary For Kathy Jo Koenen

Kathy Jo Koenen

Kathy Jo Koenen, age 58 of Rapid City South Dakota passed away on February 9th, 2026, at Monument Health, after a 2-year battle with cancer. Kathy was born on September 26th, 1967, in Parkston, SD to Melvin and Junellia Meisenhoelder. She grew up on a farm near Tripp; she attended and graduated from Tripp High School in 1985.

Kathy moved to Rapid City in 1986 where she worked at a number of different jobs including a convenience store clerk, computer assembly (at SCI) and inventory control with RGIS before landing at Napa Auto where she spent thirty years as their company bookkeeper. Kathy’s strong work ethic and versatility were evident to all who worked alongside of her.

Giving back was important to Kathy, she worked and volunteered at Heartland speedway, Black Hills Speedway & Bandit Speedway . Kathy enjoyed softball & Volleyball where she served on several committees.

Kathy met Fred Koenen in 1993. They were married on March 7th, 2007. Kathy loved and helped raise Fred’s two children, Cody and Kailee. Kathy was preceded in death by her father Melvin Meisenhoelder and sister-in-law Tami (Halvorson) Meisenhoelder. Survivors include her loving husband Fred from Rapid City, stepchildren Cody and Kailee both of Rapid City. Her mother Junellia Meisenhoelder of Tripp, siblings: Timothy (Gerri) Meisenhoelder of Phoenix Arizona. Tamara (Craig) Haase of Sioux Falls, Brian (Sarah) Meisenhoelder of Tripp, Kent Meisenhoelder of Tripp and Sheri (Gene) Trevino of Rockford Washington. Additionally, there are many nieces and nephews including great nieces and nephews.

Kathy coached and played softball for many years where she was known for her support, encouragement, genuine spirit and spunk. Her leadership, dedication and efforts led to many league championships to include several division championships and a state championship in 2020. She was also the tournament director for Hermosa Beers and Ears Tournament for five years in the women’s division.

In addition, she was heavily involved in volleyball on the city league where they won a few divisional championships.

Kathy loved not just being involved in sports, but she cherished the friendships and strong relationships she developed over the years through sports. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, competitive spirit, and the positive impact on everyone who is fortunate enough to have known and love her. She would also want to remind you to love and hug your friends, family loved one’s and cherish the time you have together. Love you all and God Bless You.

Live Stream

Program

Services

20 Feb

Celebration of Life

02:00 PM - 03:00 PM

Behrens-Wilson Funeral Home 632 Saint Francis St. Rapid City, SD 57701 Get Directions »
by Obituary Assistant

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Kathy Jo Koenen tribute

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Tributes

  • Traditional Floor Basket

    Prairie Auto Parts sent Traditional Floor Basket for Kathy Jo Koenen - 02/19/2026

    For the family of Kathy, our deepest condolences. From everyone at Prairie Auto Parts (Napa)

Condolences

  • 02/20/2026

  • 02/19/2026

    Fred I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I will greatly miss all the memories and fun that I shared with Kathy and you.

  • 02/15/2026

  • 02/13/2026

    Thoughts and prayers are with you all We are sorry for your loss Connie (Jezek)Tinney Kathy's classmate

  • 02/13/2026

    Kathy had a way of making people feel comfortable and welcomed just by being herself. She was sweet, kind and always smiling. I will always be grateful for the time we shared on the softball field. She will be deeply missed.

  • 02/13/2026

    Condolences to the family. Kathy was a good neighbor and a great friend. We will miss her.

  • 02/12/2026

    To the family of Kathy, I had the pleasure of working with Kathy when she did Whipple Racing billing for Napa. What a lovely lady. She was also a great comfort and compassion, when I lost Richard. My heart goes out to you all. Big hug, God is good.

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