Richard Damon “Dick” Koontz, 79, of Shelby, died Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2017 at his home.
Dick was born Oct. 23, 1937 in Shelby, to Kenneth Merle and Elaine Daisy (Kibler) Koontz. He was a 1955 graduate of Shelby High School and, immediately following graduation, began working at the Shelby Autocall until joining the United States Navy in June of 1956.
He had a career in the Navy as an electronic instructor until his retirement in March of 1976. Following his Navy retirement, Dick became a junior year electronic instructor at Penta County Joint Vocational School in Perrysburg, Ohio from September of 1976 until June of 1982.
Upon leaving Penta County JVS he joined the United States Navy Electronics School in Great Lakes, Illinois as an instructor and retired in 1988.
Dick was a life member of several organizations, including: Shelby American Legion, Shelby VFW, North Charleston, South Carolina Masonic Lodge #369, and the National Rifle Association. Other memberships include Shelby Owls Club, Fleet Reserve Association, and Shelby F.O.E..
After his retirement Dick traveled the United States by train and car. He enjoyed helping his neighbors, walking at the reservoir, and loved dogs, especially his dog, Snapper.
Dick was preceded in death by his mother and step-father: Elaine and Joseph Dolan and his father and step-mother: Kenneth and Lois Koontz.
At Dick’s request there will be no calling hours or funeral services. Care for Dick is being provided by Bob, Catherine, and Jake at the Turner Funeral Home in Shelby. Memorial contributions may be made to the Shelby Foundation, 142 North Gamble Street, Shelby, Ohio 44875.
To share a memory or express a condolence, please visit www.turnerfuneralhomeshelby.com
