Eunice Koenker

Eunice Avenson McAllister Koenker passed away peacefully at her home in Backus, Minnesota, on June 7, 2026.

Eunice was born on August 15, 1928, in Hubbard, Minnesota, to Albertina and Egbert Avenson. She spent her childhood in the Dorset and Nevis areas, where she grew up surrounded by the values of faith, family, and hard work that would remain at the heart of her life.

On June 7, 1952, Eunice married Vernon McAllister and began their life together on the McAllister family farm west of Backus. In 1953, she joined Vern in Fairbanks, Alaska, while he proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Alaska always held a special place in her heart. After his discharge, they returned to Minnesota, making their home in Backus. Eunice’s love and devotion to Vern remained steadfast until his passing in 1975. In 1991, she married Ken Koenker, and though their time together was far too short, she cherished their years together until his passing in 1993.

Eunice had a deep love for her community and gave of herself in countless ways. She was active in the Backettes and Corn Fest, and she lovingly tended the downtown landscape as its sole landscaper, bringing beauty and care to the heart of Backus. Her faith was also a guiding force in her life. At Emmanuel Lutheran Church, she served faithfully through the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, Sunday School, and Vacation Bible School. She found joy in gardening, took pride in caring for others, and shared her generous spirit freely. Eunice will be remembered for her kindness, her strength, and the love she gave so generously to family, friends, and neighbors.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Vernon McAllister and Ken Koenker; her brothers, Bert, Dean, and Glen Avenson; her grandsons, Chad and Michael; and her great-grandson, Dalin.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Rae (Ken) Borst, Jan (Dave) Schmid, and Dawn (Doug) Lindgren; her sons, Kelly (Karen) and Bryan; her grandchildren, Dave Jr., Mindy, Adam, Justin, Megan, Logan, and Blake; and many cherished great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 3 PM on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Backus. A visitation will be held the hour prior to the service.