Shelly Marie Koenig, 62, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Shelly was the daughter of the late Thomas and Arlene (Hannie) Panyard. She graduated from South Side High School, Class of 1982.
Shelly dedicated 27 years of service to Lincoln Financial, where she built many lasting friendships. Customer service was her specialty and her passion. She met the love of her life, Thomas “Tom” Koenig, and together they shared nearly 25 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and devotion. Shelly was a faithful and devoted member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.
Shelly was a loving wife, mother, sister, and friend, as well as a true fighter. She maintained a positive outlook on life, even through the toughest years of her battle with cancer. Despite all she endured, she never complained and often spoke of how blessed she was.
Shelly loved being outdoors, camping, traveling, soaking up the sunshine, spending time at the lake, and staying active. One of her favorite traditions was a 10-day camping trip each year to Manistee, Michigan. Running and working out were a daily part of her routine, and those who knew her best understood how important fitness and wellness were in her life.
No matter where she was, Shelly had a natural way of connecting with people. She was truly selfless, consistently putting the needs of others, both physical and emotional, ahead of her own, making sure everyone felt welcomed and included. She had a smile and a light in her eyes that made people feel good simply being in her presence.
Above all else, Shelly loved her family deeply. Spending time together and creating lasting memories with them was one of the greatest joys of her life. She was incredibly proud of her children and the people they have become.
Surviving are her husband, Tom Koenig; children, Austin (Ashley) Robinson, Tommy Koenig, Andy (Katie Kaufmann) Koenig, and Olivia Koenig; siblings, Becky (Greg) Ewing, Laura (Scott) Clark, Tom (Liz) Panyard, Tim (Alicia) Panyard, and Patty (John) Sprague; along with many nieces and nephews. Shelly was preceded in death by her brother in law, Jim Westropp.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 23, 2026, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 7710 E. State Street, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation will also be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 6557 N. Clinton Street.