Walter Palmer Koennecke passed Nov. 21, 2024, at Crouse Community Center in Morrisville. Born in Oneida to Walter M. and Hazel May Cook Koennecke on Dec. 2, 1949, Walter weighed in at less than two lbs., was not expected to survive past two weeks, two months, two years, two decades… Growing up on the family farm, Walter raised chickens, grew fruit trees, gardened, learned to weave and won many awards for his creations. Never able to use machinery nor being comfortable around dairy cows because of his epilepsy, he was most proud of his “cleanest milking machine award.” Walter loved music (autoharp,) history, church and 4-H. He participated at Heritage Farm and Madison County Community day facilities for over 25 years.
Walter is predeceased by his parents; his sister, Frieda Smith Froio; sister-in-law, Ruth Ann (Ryan); his brother, Albert and brothers-in law, Walter Smith, Joe Froio, Roger Mortensen, George Stewart, Mike Roxbury and Patrick Lamb all of whom he loved. Surviving are his sisters, Ellen Mortensen of Tucson, AZ, Luise Stewart of Chittenango, Olinda Roxbury of Camano Island, WA, and Joanne Lamb of Scotia; brother and sister-in-law, Frederick and Janet of Cazenovia and so many nieces and nephews who called him Uncle Walty.
A memorial celebration and burial is planned for the spring or summer 2025, dates to be announced. Contributions may be made to Walter’s favorite charity Heritage Farm, 3599 NY Route 46, Bouckville NY 13310. Condolences for the family may me left at michaelebrownfuneralservices.com.
