Juanita B. Koen, beloved mother, passed away on August 15, 2020 due to complications of advanced dementia. Juanita was born in Lima, Peru. She bravely immigrated to the United States on her own in search of greater opportunities for herself. Here she met and married her husband, Daniel P. Koen of Somerville. They raised a family in Arlington and then later moved to Bedford, MA. After her children grew up Juanita spent years living in Concord, MA, where she developed a sense of community and appreciation for the surrounding nature. Juanita always had a strong Christian faith that helped her weather through life challenges. Although she was a proud American citizen she always remained connected to her Peruvian roots. She loved dancing, cooking, children, and all animals especially birds. Over the years she worked as a nanny for various families including the Gant Family of Lexington, MA. She enjoyed caring for their children, Rachel and Michael, as if they were her own. What she loved most, however, was being a mother. She is survived by daughters Nancy A. Koen of Burlington and Maria S. Koen of Quincy, her husband, Daniel P. Koen of Burlington, brother Jacinto Bernedo and multiple loving nieces and nephews in Peru.

A private celebration has been arranged to honor her life.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in memory of Juanita to the Alzheimer’s Foundation.