Obituary - Byron Kuenzel

Attorney Byron Kuenzel died peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, June 22, 2015, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, at the age of 75.

Bryon is survived by his wife, Shirley Kuenzel; children, Tammy Cleem, Darrin (Brandi) Kuenzel, Derrick (Rhea) Kuenzel and Tyler Kuenzel (Kelly); sister, Darla (Dennis) Kuntz of Havre, Montana; and 12 grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Vera (Johnson) Kuenzel; and brothers, Bernard and Gregory.

Byron was born on Oct. 30,1939, in Havre. He graduated from the University of North Dakota in 1975 with a degree in psychology. He went on to earn his master's in guidance and counseling in 1976, and his juris doctorate in 1979. He was admitted to the North Dakota Bar on Oct. 10, 1979.

He married Shirley DeMaine, his best friend, on June 26, 1971, in Havre, and their marriage was blessed at St. Thomas Aquinas Newman Center in Grand Forks, North Dakota. After moving to Grand Forks, Byron began law school. While in law school Byron helped establish the Law School Program for the Protection and Advocacy of the Developmentally Disabled. He co-authored a legal rights manual that was used and referenced throughout North Dakota. Over 14 years the couple welcomed four children into their home and Byron set about teaching them invaluable lessons about character, hard work and how to treat others with compassion. His children remember him as a caring father who encouraged them to pursue their goals. Byron was talented at gardening and took great pride in his garden.

He also loved spending time with his grandchildren. He was a generous individual who loved law and who was passionate about being a voice for those who needed one. He was an active and dedicated member of the Legal Aid of North Dakota Board, and was active in politics on the state and local levels. He ran for the Grand Forks District 42 House of Representatives in 1980.

A wake was scheduled for 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2015, in the funeral home, with a prayer service at 7 p.m. Byron's funeral was scheduled for Thursday, at 10:30 a.m. in Amundson Funeral Home, 2975 S. 42nd St., Grand Forks, with a luncheon to follow. Father Gregory Haman officiated the ceremony. All were welcome to attend and celebrate Byron's life.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at Altru for their efforts and care.