Joseph F. Konefal

Joseph (Joe) F Konefal, 95, of Galesburg IL died Monday January 10, 2011 at Seminary Manor. Joe was born on May 15, 1915 in Wolka Kosowska, Poland the son of Anthony and Maria (Zurawocz) Konefal. He married Rosa Klier on January 21, 1947 in Kaufering, Germany. Joe entered the Polish Army in 1937. Joe was taken as a prisoner of war from Sept 1939 until May 1945. He chose to join the American Army in Germany after his release. In October 1950 he and Rosa traveled to Abingdon, IL in the United States of America. There they began their new life with their sponsors, the Francis Kendrick family. Joe worked as a driver and on the dock for Burlington Truck Line until his retirement.   Joe was extremely proud of his involvement with the Knights of Columbus. He was a 3rd and 4th degree member. In addition, he and his wife volunteered at the Knights of Columbus for bingo, tootsie roll drives and in the kitchen. Joe and Rosa were awarded Volunteer Family of the Year in 1988 for their dedication and service to the organization. Joe’s beloved Rosa passed away on September 18, 2010. Joe is survived by his sisters-in-law, Cosia Konefal and Wilma Klier and several nieces and nephews. Many friends will cherish his memory. He was a very kind and gentle man. Visitation will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 12, 2010 at Watson Funeral Home. A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, with Monsignor Ernest Pizzamiglio officiating.  Burial will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.  The Knox County Humane Society and/or Immaculate Heart of Mary Church are pleased to accept memorials in Joe's honor.