Gary Dean Koeneman

Gary Dean Koeneman, age 82, a retired Naval Captain passed away on February 17, 2024 in Overland Park Kansas. Gary was born in Pierce City, Missouri on August 31, 1941 to Alvin and Velma Koeneman. He is survived by his wife, Maria of Lenexa, KS; Daughter Anna Slocum of Overland Park, KS and son Tim (Tracie) of Westminster, CO; Grandchildren Cassandra Doyle (John) of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Haylee of Overland Park, KS, Brody of Overland Park, KS and Mitchell of Lawrence, KS; Brother Dennis (Dianne) of St, Louis, MO and sister Janice of Springfield, MO. He is also survived by numerous cousins and friends.

Gary grew up on a dairy farm which sparked his love for the outdoors, fishing and instilled his work ethic from a very young age. He attended Trinity Lutheran School in Freistatt, MO and Mt. Vernon High School in Mt. Vernon, MO. He then attended his next love, the University of Missouri where he graduated with a degree in Agriculture with a specialization in Dairy Manufacturing. Upon graduation in 1964, he applied for Officer Candidate School with the United States Navy, thus beginning his 26-year career with the Navy.

On June 26, 1966, Gary was the Officer in Charge of the USS Stalwart which was stationed in San Juan, Puerto Rico. A fire broke out in her forward engine room. Gary and crew tried to fight the fire for 9 hours but she finally settled on her side. Gary escaped with the clothes on his back and his Naval sword. He was promoted to Lt. Junior Grade at that time.

In January 1968, he was promoted to Lieutenant at the US Naval Recruiting Station in KC, MO. In April of 1970, he transferred from Active duty to Reserve duty.

During his time in the Reserves, he attended the US Naval War College and Naval Reserve War Gaming. He was a Commander for the manned Space Craft Recon Force for the APOLLO-Soyuz manned Space Craft. He also attended Mine Warfare School. In 1987, he went to Oberammergau, Germany to the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe where he attended The NATO school.

Gary has stated “Being named to command five Naval Reserve units was an ample reward in itself as it was an accomplishment very few Naval Officers have achieved."

In 1987, he took command of his last unit NR Saclant DET 118 in Kansas City, MO. He retired with the rank of Captain from the reserves on December 16, 1990.

Gary received numerous awards and medals throughout his career, including, but not limited to the Naval Commendation Medal and the United States National Ensign -- known as the military man’s most honored and cherished possession.

Gary was extremely proud of his military career. He met his wife through being stationed in Puerto Rico. He was also able to travel the world and experience things that he wouldn’t have been able to do without his military career.

He had a long and successful career with VF Corporation. At one point in time he was in charge of handling the labor contract negotiations for over 12,500 employees. He was extremely proud that there was never a labor strike since he was able to work with both sides to agree on terms whenever the need arose.

Another love of Gary's was Zion Lutheran Church in Prairie Village, KS. He was a dedicated parishioner and made a multitude of lifelong friends during his years of attending.

Gary had a passion for fishing. He taught his grandchildren and countless other children to fish. He loved to golf and played in numerous golf leagues for years. His love for Missouri Football was near the top of his priorities every fall. He attended as many home games in Columbia as he could, even traveling to watch them play in some bowl games. He loved the heated rivalry of MU v KU. He also enjoyed rooting on his beloved Kansas City Royals. With his wife Maria at his side, he traveled often and was able to experience many parts of the world.

Gary loved his family very much and spent as much time with them as possible. He especially loved spending time with his four grandchildren. he would take them fishing often, and was a constant presence at school functions or sporting events. They attended many Royals and Mizzou games together, and they were able to travel together around the USA on a few occasions. As they got older, he helped them learn about the stock market and advised them on their college admissions forms. He was always there for them.

Gary was loved my many. He was known for his generosity and always lending a helping hand when needed. he continued to support his hometown community through a variety of projects and events, even while living in Kansas City. Gary was also involved in the VA and supported many military veterans.

The last 4 years of Gary's life was a struggle due to his Alzheimer's diagnosis. He is at peace now.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking to make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association in his honor. You may do so by CLIKING HERE or clicking the link below.

A visitation will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 am, Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at the Amos Family Funeral Home followed by a funeral service at 11:30am. Gary will be laid to rest at Leavenworth National Cemetery following his funeral.

For those of you that can not attend Gary's funeral service, please scroll down and click the live stream link.