William Earnest Koontz Sr

In Loving Memory of William Earnest Koontz Sr.

William Earnest Koontz Sr., 70, of Rolla, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in Salem, Missouri. He was born on January 4, 1954, in Peoria, Illinois, to Melvin E. Koontz Jr. and Virginia (Neisler) Koontz.

William attended Richwoods High School and went on to work as a photographer for Olan Mills. He had a love for cameras and music, interests that brought joy to his life.

On September 24, 1976, William married the love of his life, Hope Koontz, in Peoria, Illinois. Together, they built a family and shared many years of life and memories.

William will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Hope Koontz of Rolla, Missouri; his daughter, Kimberly Gleason of Dubai, UAE; his son, William Koontz Jr., and wife, Tonya, of Morton, Illinois; his son, Christopher Koontz, and wife, Heather, of Wyoming, Illinois; his daughter, Gretchen Arganbright, and husband, Lee, of Salem, Missouri; his daughter, Heather Sprouse, and husband, Kevin, of Licking, Missouri; his daughter, Karen Shelby, and husband, Larry, of Salem, Missouri; and his son, Aaron Koontz, and wife, Michelle, of Salem, Missouri.

He also leaves behind 15 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, who will carry his memory forward for generations to come.

William was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Catherine Propst.

His memory will live on through the family he loved, the memories they shared, and the many lives touched throughout his journey. He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who knew and loved him.