ELKHART -- Cecil W. "Coney" Konanz Sr., 81, of Elkhart, died at 1:14 p.m. Wednesday (Feb. 11, 2009) in Elkhart General Hospital.

He was born Jan. 15, 1928, in Elkhart to Leonard and Hattie (Brunne) Konanz. In June 1947, he married Lucille M. Siebarth in Elkhart.

She survives along with one son, Cecil W. "Bud" (Jeanene) Konanz Jr. of Elkhart; one daughter, Vicki (Ken) Wheeler of Goshen; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one brother, R.J. Konanz of Sacramento.

He was preceded in death by four siblings, Guy, Irvin, Hazel and Denelda Konanz.

Along with his wife, Mr. Konanz owned and operated Coney's Furniture Store, Elkhart, for over 35 years; he retired in 1990. After retirement, he became an active follower of the stock market and an avid trader. He repaired and sold bicycles, enjoyed following the Billy Graham ministries on TV, playing cards (especially Texas Hold 'Em) with his friends and family, spending time with his shih-tzu and playing checkers with his eldest great-grandchild.

He was a jokester who never turned down a good debate.

Friends may call two hours prior to Saturday's 1 p.m. funeral service at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart. Pastor Rick Pirtle of Riverview General Baptist Church will officiate. Burial will be in Adamsville (Mich.) Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201. Visit www.billingsfuneralhome.com to send online condolences