Willis Koepnick Obituary (1922 - 2010)

WILLIS R. KOEPNICK Willis R. Koepnick, age 87, was called home to heaven on Tuesday, January 26, 2010. He was born in Menomonie on December 23, 1922 to Robert and Alvina Koepnick. Willis and his wife, Carol, moved to Las Cruces, New Mexico a few years ago to be with their daughter and her family. Willis served in the US Army for over four years during World War II and received an honorable discharge on December 13, 1945. He worked at the Menomonie Post Office as a letter carrier and postal clerk until his retirement in 1978. He was a member of St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Menomonie until they moved to Emmanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church in Las Cruces. Survivors include his daughter Ann Samaniego, his son-in-law Ralph Samaniego and his granddaughter Sara, all of Las Cruces. Other survivors include one brother, Jim Koepnick and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol, and his parents. At Willis' request cremation took place in New Mexico. A memorial service with military honors, and interment will take place in Menomonie in July. Olson Funeral Home in Menomonie is assisting the family. To express condolences online, please visit obituaries at www.olsonfuneral.com