William H. Koenecke

Dr. William H. Koenecke, a retired college professor and K-12 educator, passed away on March 29, 2023, at the age of 77 after a brief illness. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and mentor whose passing will be mourned by many.

Born on September 21, 1945, in Olney, Illinois, to Henry and Alice Koenecke. Dr. Koenecke graduated from Murray College High School in 1963 before attending Murray State University. He held a Ph.D. in Educational Administration from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and earned a second M.S. Degree in Industrial Technology and Training Development from Illinois State University.

Dr. Koenecke was a devoted husband to his wife of 56 years, Marcia Burpoe Koenecke, and a loving father to his three children, Lynne Whitley (Clif), Lori Immke (Mark), and William H. Koenecke, Jr (Heather). He was also a proud grandfather to Andrew and Rachel Immke, Austin, John, Lauren, and Tyler Whitley, and Micah Koenecke. He had two nephews, Mitchell McNutt (Selena) and Michael McNutt (Cindy). He was preceded in death by his mother, Dr. Alice Koenecke, his father, Henry C. Koenecke, his in-laws, the Reverend RJ and Mildred Burpoe, sister-in-law Glenda McNutt, and his grandson, Joshua Immke.

Over his distinguished career, Dr. Koenecke held positions ranging from high school chemistry teacher to high school and grade school principal, school superintendent and has taught at three universities, including his alma mater, Murray State University until his retirement in June 2012. He was widely respected in the academic community and published numerous articles and research papers in various journals. He was writing his second book at the time of his passing.

Dr. Koenecke was an active member of his community and generously gave his time and expertise to various organizations including the Lion’s Club and Rotary in several of the communities where he lived, and belonged to many educational associations (Kentucky Science Teachers’ Association, National Science Teachers’ Association, Kentucky Academy of Science, Phi Delta Kappa International, Murray State University Chapter). He was a dedicated member of his church and served in various capacities over the years.

He will be remembered as a kind, compassionate, and intelligent individual who touched the lives of everyone he met through his kindness, wisdom, and guidance.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, April 2, 2023, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation with Pastor Jeff Rudy and Bro. Jim Stahler will officiate. Burial will follow in the Murray Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., Sunday, April 2, 2023, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the First United Methodist Church, 503 Maple Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071.

Online condolences can be made at, www.jhchurchill.com