Thomas Henry Koenes

Friends and Family, we wanted to share that Tom passed away on Wednesday, April 27 2022. He is now in the loving embrace of Jesus with his health fully restored. We will celebrate Tom’s life on Monday May 9, 2022, Noon at Mosaic Church (14175 Winter Garden, FL). We will always remember Tom for his steadfast faith, his ability to fix anything, his love of music, fast cars, deep friendships, and most importantly, his love for his family.

Tom was born on August 16, 1956 in Oak Lawn, IL and grew up in Southern California. While growing up, he developed passion for music that lasted a lifetime. Learning to play the drums by ear, as his brother was a noted musician, Tom played in many bands and especially loved serving on church worship teams.

He possessed a God-given talent to fix anything, especially as an electrician. He served so many others as a practicing electrician for over 26 years working on large projects and running his own company in Florida for a number of years. He was especially detail-oriented and made sure the job was done right. Interestingly, Tom kept a list of every job he had and big projects accomplished.

Tom also loved fast cars and taking rides with Sheryl and Sayde with the windows down. Tom kept a list of every car he owned and recently for his birthday rented a Slingshot for a day of adventure with Sherry!

He always counted his first car, the orange 1965 Mustang 289 4 speed, as his favorite.

Tom’s family was so very important to him. He and his Dad shared a deep faith and enjoyed boating and working on home projects together. He loved teasing his Mom and sister Sue which filled their home with laughter! Most precious to him were his daughter Desirae and Son Tyrel and their families. He was tremendously proud of his daughter-in-law MaryBeth and his son-in- law Dennis, who is serving our Country as Sergeant Major of the Army. Tom’s eyes lit up at the sound of his grandkids voices saying “Papa” and their loving hugs.

He had a zest for adventure – bike rides, fishing and visits to the mountains. Tom’s story was completed by and through his relationship with Sheryl. They were married for 18 years and shared many hours of Joy in their beautiful flower garden, frequent visits to Disney, nights watching fireworks, her love for romantic comedies and his love for westerns and Broncos’ football games.

The story of Tom’s journey would not be complete without noting the strength, resolve and determination to beat cancer. HE BEAT CANCER! His oncologist called him “his miracle”. He approached cancer with the same tenacity and focus as any hard electrical project. His family and friends witnessed a warrior – a warrior who would not give up and a warrior who was drawn closer to Jesus during his battle.

Tom is survived by his Wife Sheryl (Sherry), daughter Desirae Cronin, son-in-law Dennis Cronin, grandchildren Connor, Cailen’Rae, and Kyla Cronin, daughter-in-law MaryBeth Koenes, grandchildren MaryBella and Beckam Koenes, Father Alfred (Al) Koenes, Sister Susan (Sue) Lim, brother-in-law Robert (Bob) Lim, nephews Michael and Brandon Lim, Sister-in-Law Karen Koenes, niece Kristy Koenes. He is preceded in death by his Mother Delores Koenes, brother Alfred Michael Koenes, and son Tyrel Koenes.

In leu of flowers the family is asking that offerings be made to Gabriel House of Care in Jacksonville where Tom and Sheryl stayed and were cared for during his treatment at Mayo Clinic. https://gabrielhouseofcare.networkforgood.com/

Please join the family for a light lunch, coffee bar and cupcakes in the foyer following Tom’s Celebration of Life. Celebratory attire suggested.

A celebration of life for Thomas will be held Monday, May 9, 2022 at 12:00 PM at Mosaic Church, 14175 W Colonial Drive, Winter Garden, Florida 34787.