Orrin DeForrest “Rock” Koontz III was born August 9, 1943, to Helen Marie (Hanson) and Orrin D. Koontz, Jr. in Albert Lea, Minnesota. He grew up all over before the family settled in Sanborn, Iowa. Rocky graduated from Sanborn High School with the class of 1961.
After high school, Rocky continued his education at Barber College in Sioux City, Iowa. He came back to Sanborn and worked for Marv Achterhof before beginning his career at Associated Milk Producers, Inc. He retired after 42 1/2 years of service.
Rocky was united in marriage to Ann Walvord on April 11, 1964. To this union, two children, Brett and Damon, were born. The couple later divorced. He then met Cherie Raymond and the couple were married on March 17, 1984. To this union, two children, Jenna and Jared were born.
In his free time, Rocky was an avid gun collector, which was a lifelong hobby. He enjoyed motorcycle trips with his family, especially to Sturgis, South Dakota, and loved listening to music. Most of all, Rocky was a true patriot and always regretted he wasn’t able to serve his country. To honor Rocky, have a cup of 8 O’Clock coffee, keep up the pace or hold the flashlight still!
Orrin “Rock” Koontz passed on May 28, 2024 at the age of 80. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother and sister; Uncle Jones; and one great-grandchild, Carter.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Cherie Koontz of Sanborn; children: Brett (Lynn) Koontz of Sanborn, Damon Koontz of Le Mars, Iowa, Jenna (Dan) Gustafson of rural Kiron, Iowa and Jared (Teanna) Koontz of Sanborn; 10 grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.
A funeral service was held May 31 at Sanborn Funeral Home Chapel, Sanborn, Iowa.
Pallbearers were Jared Koontz, Jenna Gustafson, Brett Koontz, Damon Koontz, Nyron Moore and Tony Mazur.
Honorary Pallbearers were Taylor Koontz, Trevor Koontz, Nick Koontz, Hunter Koontz, Tyler Koontz, Tom Koontz, Ashlyn Frye, Ellie Gustafson, Harlyn Koontz and Payslie Martini.
Musical selections were “Touch of Gray,” “How Great Thou Art” and “Peaceful, Easy Feeling.”
Interment was Roseland Cemetery of Sanborn.
Sanborn and Hartley Funeral Homes in charge of arrangements.