Obituary for Gary W. Koonce

With profound sadness we announce the sudden passing of Gary W. Koonce, our loving and devoted husband and father, on June 1, 2022.

Gary was a graduate of Shadyside High School where he was a talented athlete. He was honored to serve in the Vietnam War as a member of the US Navy. He served on the USS IWO JIMA, LPH-2 where he was honorably discharged after four years of service. He attended Ohio University where he earned his BS in Civil Engineering, was a licensed Professional Engineer, and worked in the field of structural engineering for his entire career, even during his retirement. He was a long-standing member of the Knights of Columbus (36 years) and enjoyed being involved in his church.  He ran St. Paul’s fish fries during Lent and the Sunday Breakfasts, he will be hard to replace. He was a leader of a small church group alongside his wife, Peggy. Gary has attended the Memorial Golf Tournament for the past 46 years and couldn’t wait to attend this year. His grandson and step-grandson took his folding chair and sat it at the 18^th hole in his honor on Sunday, the last day of the tournament. He also loved to watch and cheer for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Then again, he enjoyed nearly all college football games. Ironically, each of his three children got married in the fall at the height of the football season. 

He married the love of his life Peggy Marik on February 6, 1971 and they were together for over 51 years. He took great pride in his three children and enjoyed watching his seven grandchildren grow up. 

Gary is preceded in death by his parents Jim and Helen Koonce, son-in-law Chad Beller and niece Tiffany Koonce. Gary is survived by his wife Peggy, children and grandchildren Jody Koonce Christy (Chris Christy) Westerville, children Brendan, Meagan and Lauran. Jennifer Koonce Zalewski (Rob Zalewski) Worthington, children Joey and Nick, and step-children Bennett and Alex. Jeremy Koonce (Amy Sheppard) Chicago, children Jameson and Heidi.

Many were lucky enough to enjoy his humor, huge heart, love for his family, devotion to his wife, hear his countless high school football and track stories, and see him dance. And on very rare instances you could see him perform via karaoke one of his favorites; Johnny B. Goode. 

Visitation will be held at Hill’s Funeral Home in Westerville, on Thursday, June 9, 2022 from 4-6 pm. A memorial service will take place at St. Paul’s Catholic Church on Friday June 10, 2022 at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to Lifeline of Ohio.