William "Bill" Arthur Koehnen

About Bill

William “Bill” Arthur Koehnen, 86, passed away at home in Bemidji, MN, on October 28, 2024. His deep faith in Christ assured him that he is now reunited with his beloved wife, Joyce, who passed away just two weeks earlier.

Bill was born on June 6, 1938, to Ed and Margaret (Miller) Koehnen, one of 14 siblings. He grew up on a farm near Mound, where he learned the value of hard work— a trait that defined his life.

A talented wrestler, Bill was a three-time conference champion, and in his undefeated senior year, won the state championship title. Bill’s team placed 2nd in state, and Bill was the Northwest AAU and Iowa Teachers Invitational champion. Bill continued his wrestling career at the University of Minnesota, where he placed 3rd and 4th in the Big Ten, and was part of the 1959 Big Ten Champion team.

Though he was very accomplished at an early age, Bill's greatest priority was his family. He married Joyce Moore on July 2, 1955, and together they raised four sons in Mound and spent weekends at their cabin in Northome. Bill worked as a cement mason, later purchasing the business and running it until the family moved to Blackduck, MN, to farm in 1977. In 1984, they settled in Bemidji on Lake Movil while Bill oversaw the construction of large apartment complexes throughout the Midwest. Bill's creativity and intelligence were evident in the many homes, including resort cabins, he built and remodeled for his family. In retirement, he enjoyed cultivating his hunting land and extensive garden in Tenstrike. Bill loved spearfishing and hunting, often traveling with friends across the country and to Mexico.

Known for his kindness, honesty, fairness, strength, and generosity, Bill was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was a friend to all and cared for those around him. Bill and Joyce were inseparable and shared an extraordinary love for one another. They created a welcoming home and cherished hosting people for meals, conversation, and fun on the lake and land. His legacy of integrity and love continues to inspire all who knew him.

Bill is survived by his four sons, Mike (Becky) Koehnen, Scott (Deb) Koehnen, Shane Koehnen, and Rick Koehnen; his grandchildren, Jenny (Paul) Lutter, Chris (Sherryl) Koehnen, Pat (Lesley) Koehnen, Matthew (Sophie Amelkin) Goinz, Adam (Jen) Goinz, April (Jon) Gesinger, and Shawn Koehnen; 13 great-grandchildren; his sisters Marilyn Lloyd and Barbara Rench; as well as numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He is preceded in death by his dear wife, Joyce; his parents, Ed and Margaret Koehnen; in-laws Harry and Grace Moore; daughter-in-law Laura Koehnen; and many siblings.

memorial service

Funeral Service for Bill and Joyce

November 13, 2024

St Philip's Catholic Church 702 Beltrami Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601, USA

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. A lunch will follow the service, after which a graveside service will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Cease Family Funeral Home