Robert “Bob” Lance Koeninger, 72, passed into the arms of Jesus on March 17, 2024, in his hometown. Bob was born on June 15, 1951, in Lubbock, Texas, to Burl Wilson and Freddie Marie Koeninger. He was raised in O’Donnell, TX and Albuquerque, NM. Bob met the love his life, Valerie Smithey, on March 14, 1976, and he knew within 15 minutes he would make her his wife. He was a loving and faithful husband to Valerie for 45 years and 9 months. Bob soon became a devoted father to his only son, Jeremy Lance Koeninger. Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his only brother, Don Wilson Koeninger.
Bob was a simple man of many talents and held various roles throughout his career, from janitor, private pilot, flight instructor, maintenance worker, security officer and bus driver for special needs students. He was a faithful and dedicated member of Southcrest Baptist Church, where he provided pastoral care, as well as found comfort and community.
Known for his gentle nature and West Texas charm, Bob was a faithful servant of God, his family, and his church. He had a witty sense of humor that brought joy to those around him. In his free time, he enjoyed watching the cotton grow on the farm, watching people and observing the world go by.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Southcrest Baptist Church, 3801 South Loop 289, Lubbock, TX, 79423. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Southcrest Baptist Church, Missions Fund in Bob’s memory.
The funeral arrangements are entrusted to Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers in Lubbock, Texas. Bob will be dearly missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
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