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Obituary for KOENIG


Published in the Albuquerque Journal on Monday January 19, 2004

Hazel Koenig, 86, came to the end of her wonderful life on January 10 with family and friends at her side. Hazel and her late husband James Koenig moved to Albuquerque in 1978 after a lifetime in Chicago. James died in 1988 at the age of 76. Hazel had been a professional dancer in her 20s and continued her love of dance until she died. She was active in Albuquerque's Highland Senior Center where she was a faithful member of the folk dancing team. One of Hazel's most memorable performances was at the wedding of her granddaughter, Juliette, in 1999. Hazel danced and sang at the wedding accompanied by her equally effervescent son, Terry. After James died, Hazel was able to travel the world, thanks to the love and generosity of her son, Jim and his wife, Pam. Hazel's greatest joy in life came from spending time with family. She doted on her three children and eight grandchildren. Hazel showered her family with affection and that deep love was reciprocated. Hazel's daughter, Dianne, a nurse, moved to Albuquerque in 2001 to care for her mother after health problems surfaced. Hazel Koenig dressed in bold colors and patterns. Her clothing reflected her exuberance for life. She had a bubbly personality and a quick step. She extracted great joy from the sight of the moon and the smell of a rose. Her body has been cremated. Her ashes will be buried next to her husband's at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe. A service will be held there at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 30. Anyone with questions may call Dianne at 265-4099.