January 5, 1953 - May 29, 2020
Beloved Father, Son, Brother, Uncle, Friend, and Coworker. Always described as someone who “knows a lot about a lot”.
Born January 5, 1953, in Stockton, California to Francis and Anna Koenig. Fran spent his formative years in Stockton, graduating from St. Mary’s High School. Soon after, Francis, lovingly known to the family as Bubby, graduated from Humphrey’s College. Beginning his career with the City of Stockton Corporation Yard, he settled in to become a lifelong citizen of Stockton. His career of 37 years in the Traffic Signal and Street Light Shop quickly made him an expert in the field bringing along many friends and experiences into his life. His work took him all around the city, creating exciting moments when spotted up on an aerial truck repairing traffic lights. Described as a “walking encyclopedia”, many came to him for answers and direction. If he didn't have the answer, he would quickly go find out. His attitude for precision made him a kind teacher and mentor to many, reminding his coworkers and friends to always be the best that they could be.
Francis was a quiet, quick-witted man with a big heart and an unwavering love for all those in his life. A long-time friend of the family describes Francis as “one of the best friends EVER, always available to help.” With his background in electronics, he soon became the go-to guy for all questions and needs. When he wasn't working on someone's vacuum or air conditioning unit, he collected and restored antique radios, often listening to some rock or blues tunes as he did so. He was also an avid car enthusiast, collecting many classic cars to tinker on. His impressive collection of cars won him multiple awards including, 1st Place Imported 1960 to Present at the 9th Annual Asparagus Festival, 1st Place Sports Car Concours Autumn Classic in Santa Cruz, 1st Place Capital City British Car Day in Sacramento 1990-1993 & 1995, 2nd Place Imported 1960 to Present at the 11th Annual Asparagus Festival, and 2nd Place Court Sutter Sportscar Show with IOF Foresters, to name a few.
On any given day, Francis could be found in his Shop at home restoring a vintage radio, on his recliner watching a crime thriller, listening to Janis Joplin or Joan Jett on his elaborate sound system or travelling to break bread with his family and friends afar.
Being an adventurous foodie, Francis would travel far and wide for something as simple as a hotdog. Monterey and San Francisco became his favorite food hubs. Daily lunch excursions would find him with coworkers and friends at their favorite spots in Stockton.
Francis welcomed his daughter, Cameron Wilson in 2006, and as a doting father, he is described as, “a hidden gem in his quietness, a steadfast dad, knowledgeable beyond many in understanding”. He was an active father - attending Cameron's ballet recitals, going on adventures in the mountains, taking her out for meals, and was easily captured laughing in photos with her.
Francis was a cancer survivor, powering through anything that came his way with a quiet strength and with support from those who cared so deeply for him.
He passed peacefully, at home on May 29. He is beloved by many, and will be missed by all who knew him.
Surviving family members include his daughter Cameron Willow Wilson and her mother, Elissa Lynn Wilson. His brother Mark George Koenig, sister-in-law Diane Sprake Koenig, and nieces Lissa Jenat Koenig, Julee Simone Koenig, and Sharyl Marie Koenig. Preceded in death by father, Francis Joseph Koenig and mother, Anna Ana (Papazian) Koenig.
Family and friends are invited to attend Visitation on Monday, June 8th, 11-3pm.
VISITATION
Visitation will be held at Cherokee Memorial Park & Funeral Home in the Vineyard Chapel located at Hwy 99 and E. Harney Lane in Lodi, CA.
Due to COVID-19 guidelines, please come prepared with face masks and observe social distancing rules for your safety and that of others.
In lieu of flowers and for Memorial Donations: Saint Joseph’s Foundation of San Joaquin - Saint Joseph’s Cancer Institute.
Please leave your condolences below.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Koenig family.
