Harry Koenig

Harry Koenig (1938-2021)

Harry left this world on March 1, 2021, but his spirit will live on in all the lives he touched. Harry leaves his beloved daughter Lisa Miller, her husband Jeff, his two grandchildren Maddie and Shane, his sister, Mary Lou Maher (Jerry), his brother Jack (Anne), step-daughter Anne (her children), and many loving cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Danny.

Growing up on the south side of Chicago, Harry graduated from Notre Dame University in 1959 and received a graduate degree in social work from the University of Illinois. Before starting his career, he hitch-hiked across the country and visited every National Park in the States. As a Chicago probation officer, Harry used his education, his humanity, his skills, and his kindness to help find social justice for children and teens who had none in Chicago’s disadvantaged neighborhoods. He made the decision to move his daughter away from the city and took a job working for the School District in the suburbs. This is where he formed lifelong relationships with the students he counseled and lovingly referred to as “his kids.” Years later, his “kids” remained in his life as friends and sought his wise guidance.  

In retirement, Harry moved to Pueblo, Colorado, to live close to the mountains he loved and the cabin he built when Lisa was born, and where they spent most summers. Once settled, he wrote two books using a Smith Corona typewriter, rescued several dogs and cats, read avidly, and raged at politics. Everyone who knew him knew his love for animals, music, gardening, and cooking, but most of all, his role as Grandfather was his greatest joy. Harry was a humble man of great courage who never needed or wanted recognition for his good works. His good works live on in those he loved.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to

PAWS for Life

800 N. Pueblo Blvd

Pueblo, Co 81003

pawspueblo.org