Brian J. Koenecke August 14, 1960 – February 28, 2015 of Chama, New Mexico and formerly Delano, Minnesota. Brian stepped away from the pain of his cancer at Presbyterian Hospital in Espanola, New Mexico on February 28th. He was cared for by hospital staff, AmberCare Hospice, and close friend, Anita Stark. Brian is survived by his parents Burton and Virginia Koenecke; brothers Brad (Kathy) Koenecke and Greg (Lisa) Koenecke; nieces Nicole (Eric) Forbes, Laura (Mason) Milliken, Kari (Zach) Fisher, Anna Koenecke and Kayla Koenecke; nephews Mitch Koenecke and Joel Koenecke; aunts Lila Koenecke and Arline Reihs; and special cousins. Brian has many friends in the Chama community who are an important part of his extended family. Their continued support helped ease the distress of his cancer diagnosis. Brian was a skilled woodworker. He was a man who loved to work. Nothing made him happier than a creative project and working with friends. With a grant from the state of New Mexico, he and his co-workers were able to restore the Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railroad passenger car to its original opulence. It will be enjoyed by many tourists for years to come. You can see Brian”s handiwork throughout the community of Chama. Brian loved the simple life: Good food, good friends, fishing and hiking. He especially enjoyed the annual hunt at the cabin with his dad, brothers and nephews. Brian was known for his wit, genuine heart and love of life. Thank you, God, for the wonderful life of this man. Funeral services were held Saturday, March 21st at Delano United Methodist Church, 3310 County Line Road SE, Delano MN at 2PM.