Norma Koenning

Norma Koenning, a devoted mother, “Nana,” sister, and friend, passed away on August 21, 2025, in her hometown of Alice, Texas. Born on March 25, 1962, Norma lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, and compassion. She will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her giving spirit, and her loving heart.

A proud graduate of the Alice Independent School District, Class of 1981, Norma excelled in the classroom and on the track and volleyball teams. Her commitment and determination carried well beyond her school years, as she devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family and community.

Christmas was Norma’s favorite time of year, with her home filled with love, laughter, and the aroma of her cherished pan de polvo cookies. Cooking was one of the many ways she showed her love to others. She also expressed her creativity through painting, her joy through gardening, and her appreciation for the arts through musical theater. She especially enjoyed family outings to the Harbor Playhouse in Corpus Christi, with “Oklahoma!” and “Fiddler on the Roof” among her favorites.

Norma shared an unbreakable bond with her sister and best friend, Nelda. Together they made cherished pilgrimages to the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan and the Shrine of Saint Jude, always ending their trips with meals, laughter, and memories made side by side.

Her Catholic faith guided every part of her life. Norma prayed the Holy Rosary daily with Father Pete, faithfully lifting up the petitions of family and friends. Her deep devotion to Our Blessed Mother Mary shaped her into the woman her loved ones will forever admire.

Norma is survived by her loving children, Audi (David) Olvera, Tony (Gabby Ruiz) Arellano, Sam Koenning, and Gavin Koenning. She took immense pride in her grandchildren, Ronin Beatriz Olvera, Max Ryan Arellano, Tyler Olvera, Joshua Olvera, and Emma Gonzalez, who were her greatest joys. She also leaves behind her sisters, Nelda (Antonio) Jimenz and Jilma “Genny” Vinson; her uncle, Joe (Linda) Vela; her aunt, Nina Cruse; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

She was welcomed into eternal rest by her parents, Antonio and Manuela V. Diaz; her maternal grandparents, Baltazar and Jilma M. Vela Sr.; her paternal grandparents, Antonio and Rosa L. Diaz Sr.; her infant daughter, Nora Lynn Koenning; her brother, Francisco T. Rios; her aunt, Maria (Reynaldo) Charles; and her uncles, Johnny Vela, Joel Vela and Baltazar Vela Jr.

Norma's Memorial Service and recitation of the Holy Rosary is scheduled for Friday, September 5, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Alice, TX, at 6:00 PM. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects and celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who touched the hearts of all she encountered. Her kindness, compassion, and unwavering faith will continue to inspire all who knew her.

To leave your condolences for the family of Norma Koenning, share your memories, or visit her tribute wall, please go to www.trevinofuneralhome.net.