Delbert Koenig, 85

Delbert Arnold Koenig, 85, died peacefully at home in Kalispell on Feb. 10, 2026. Del lived his whole life in the Flathead Valley, where he grew up spending time in the North Fork, spent four decades working in Montana’s timber industry, helped raise two sons and was a generous and kind grandfather to three grandchildren. 

Del was born June 21, 1940, the son of Alvin Fredrick Koenig and Nancy Elizabeth "Boots" Koenig, and the younger brother to Carol Koenig. He attended Edgerton Elementary School, Central Middle School and Flathead High School. As a child, he was his father’s shadow, tagging along on hunting and fishing trips up the North Fork and helping run the Koenig Brothers Lumber Company. Del also loved sports, drag racing and fast cars.

Del worked for his dad and uncle and as a logging truck driver before spending 36 years at Stolze, leaving before dawn each workday for the mill at Half Moon. He made many friends at Stolze who stayed in touch in retirement. Del was married to Virgina Koenig for more than 20 years. He spent his free time outdoors and going to the family cabin on Flathead Lake. 

Del’s greatest joys were his two sons, Don and T.J. He helped coach several Little League and Babe Ruth baseball teams and reminisced for years afterward about the memories he made with his sons and their friends. Del spent many nights driving his sons to their practices, games and activities, imparting wisdom and understanding.

In his retirement, Del enjoyed scenic drives on the back roads of Montana and discovering restaurants beside lakes or with mountain views, always searching for the best prime rib. He talked to his sons almost daily and loved hearing about his granddaughters’ successes in school and sports. He also loved choosing special gifts and watching his grandchildren open them at Christmas. At home, Del enjoyed watching the Mariners, the Steelers and Gonzaga basketball. 

He is survived by his sister, best friend and caregiver, Carol; his son Don; daughter-in-law Jennifer and granddaughters Clara, Lucy and Joleigh Koenig. He was especially grateful for his caregivers at Sunflower Companions. 

Del was preceded in death by his youngest son, T.J.

At his request, Del’s family will spread his ashes up the North Fork, beside a clear stream with a view of the most beautiful Montana peaks.