William Aloysius Konen

William (Bill) passed away October 30, 2016 at the age of 93. He was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on April 14, 1923, and is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, 3 sons: Richard and Donald both of Piedmont, South Carolina, and Jerry of Rockledge, Florida, 5 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and nieces.
He entered the military in 1939 when he joined the Iowa National Guard, and was called up to active duty in the Army with the outbreak of WWII in 1941. He fought in the Tunisian, Naples-Foggia, and Rome-Arma campaigns, and received many awards during the war; among them were three Bronze Stars, the American Defense Service Ribbon, as well as receiving six overseas bars. Following VE Day he joined the United States Air Force where he served until his retirement and honorable discharge in 1964. He was totally for the American dream.
Following his retirement William enjoyed several different occupations including Real Estate, Auctioneering, and general sales at local venues. He was also known for his kindness to the elderly and the needy. He routinely would provide coats and clothing to the homeless and will be greatly missed.
Funeral services will not be held locally. A Christian Mass of Committal with final commendation will be held aboard ship before his ashes are buried at sea.