Thomas "Steve" Koenigseder

Thomas “Steve” Koenigseder, 73, of Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away on April 20, 2022, after
a hard-fought battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Steve was born July 30, 1948, in Fort Smith,
Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank “Pete” and Mary Agnes Koenigseder,
and his loving wife, Lauretta. He is survived by his brother, Mike Koenigseder, along with many
of his and Lauretta’s extended family.
Steve grew up in Fort Smith, where he made many lasting friendships. He graduated with a
business degree from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Steve took great pride in his
career as an air-traffic controller at the Little Rock Airport until he retired at the age of 56. He
married Lauretta in 1977 and they shared forty-two years until she died in 2019.
After his retirement, Steve and Lauretta spent more time enjoying life. They loved ballroom
dancing, ushering at the Arkansas Symphony, snow skiing, extensive traveling, and frequent
gatherings with family. Steve and his family cherished his role each year as Santa Claus at the
annual Bruning Family Christmas Party. Steve was an active member of Christ the King Catholic
Church and the Knights of Columbus.
Steve wanted to thank all the special people that helped him live independently during his last
few years, including his sister-in-law, Diane Brown, and his cousin, Barbara Bender. The three of
them developed a special relationship while adapting to the progressive effects of Steve’s
disease. With their loving care, Steve was able to maintain his independence until the last few
months of his life.
A Rosary will be held Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at 2:30 p.m., followed by The Mass of Christian Burial at
Christ the King Catholic Church in Little Rock. Steve will be laid to rest at Arkansas State Veterans' Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Parkinson’s Foundation.
Online guestbook at www.smithfamilycares.com