Eugene “Gene” Homer Koontz, 91, of Union Mills, Indiana passed away Saturday, September 25, 2021.

 

Gene was born on March 26, 1930, in Westville, Indiana to the late George and Pearl (Barnes) Koontz.

 

On October 27, 1951, Gene married his high school sweetheart Marlene Jean Janisch who preceded him in death on November 17, 2020. Gene and Marlene were married 69 years.

 

Gene attended Westville High School.  Gene was drafted into the United States Marine Corps and proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict.  He worked as a sheet metal worker for over 30 years.  He was a coach for the Union Mills Little League for 14 years and served as an officer of the league.  Gene and Marlene traveled the countryside following their grandchildren and great-grandchildren in all their activities for their remaining years

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After his service, Gene started his lifelong love of flying.  He eventually earned his institutional pilots license and introduced his family and many others to the joys of flying airplanes.   He continued his passion for aviation by flying model airplanes with his sons throughout his later years.  Gene was an inventive and intelligent person who always took care of his family. 

 

Gene is survived by his children, Teri Lee Aubin of LaPorte, Jim Koontz of Hanna, Jeff (Kelly) Koontz of Union Mills, and Steve (Maria) Koontz of Hanna; ten grandchildren, William, Gregory, Craig, Stanley, Matt, Adam, Ryan, Kyle, Alexandria, and Nicholas; several great-grandchildren; and his sister, Elizabeth Pike.  He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marlene; a daughter-in-law, Darlene Koontz; a son-in-law, Robert Aubin; and his sisters, May Rhoda and Mary Hill.

 

Cremation has taken place.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana.  

 

Please share prayers, condolences, and memories with the family at EsslingFuneralHome.com