Marlene Jean Koontz, 88, of Union Mills, Indiana passed away Tuesday, November 17, 2020. 

 

Marlene was born on November 4, 1932, in Sawyer, Michigan to Frank and Martha (Schmidt) Janisch, growing up on their farm in Union Mills.

 

On October 27, 1951, she married her high school sweetheart, Eugene “Gene” Koontz. Marlene and Eugene were married 69 years, during which time they traveled to San Diego and Florida, while Gene served in the Marines. 

 

Marlene taught in the LaPorte school system for over 20 years, touching the lives of many children. She was active in all of her children’s activities; band, baseball (where she kept score for 14 years), football, and any event in which her family was involved. Marlene and Gene continued traveling the countryside, following grandchildren and great-grandchildren in all of their activities for the remainder of her years.   

 

Marlene was a kind, loving, and intelligent person who was always caring for others. She enjoyed life as a pilot, seamstress, wonderful cook, and the best wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother one could ever ask for.  God blessed the world with her, and we thank God for her. 

 

Marlene is survived by her husband Eugene, children: Teri Aubin of LaPorte, Jim Koontz of Hanna, Jeff (Kelly) Koontz of Union Mills, Steve (Maria) Koontz of Hanna, sister-in-law: Leta Janisch of LaPorte, 10 grandchildren: William, Gregory, Craig, Stanley, Matt, Adam, Ryan, Kyle, Alexandria, and Nicholas, and several great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter-in-law, Darlene Koontz, a son-in-law, Robert Aubin, and brothers, Ron and Don Janisch. 

 

Cremation has taken place.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel in La Porte. 

 

Please share prayers, condolences, and memories with the family at Essling Funeral Home.com.