Richard Koontz

Richard "RJ" Michael Koontz, 47, of Windsor Heights, IA, passed away peacefully at his home on December 19, 2025.

RJ was born on March 19th, 1978 in Spring Valley, IL to Richard Koontz and Dawn (Smith) Kohn. He graduated from East Lansing High School in East Lansing, MI in 1996 and had a long career in property management. During his time in East Lansing, he also became a devoted lifelong MSU Spartan fan. After moving to Iowa, RJ explored other jobs in food service to foster his talent for cooking. He had many interests and often shared his dreams of becoming a musician, a radio DJ, a meteorologist, a writer, or a chef. His gentle spirit and sense of humor brightened the lives of those who knew him. His family and his faith were of utmost importance to him. RJ was a loving son, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew, and friend who will be missed dearly by his loved ones.

RJ is survived by his sisters Mandy Heng (Michael) of Urbandale, IA and Corinne Washburne (Martin) of Mason, MI; aunts Janet (Koontz) Ajster of Kileen, TX and Pamela (Koontz) McMillan of Virginia Beach, VA; uncle Michael Smith of Peru, IL; stepfather Jare Kohn of Roscoe, IL; step grandmother Joyce (Gregorich) Koontz of LaSalle, IL; step grandfather James Waytenick of Peru, IL; and numerous cousins, a niece and nephews, and step siblings.

He was preceded in death by his father Richard Koontz and mother Dawn (Smith) Kohn; his grandfather Arthur Smith and grandmother Elsie (Harbert) Smith; his grandfather Richard Koontz and grandmother Arlene (Smith) Waytenick.

A celebration of life will be announced here at a later date. The family invites loved ones to share photos and stories that may be included in the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Wellmark Urban Dreams Community Center, 1615 2nd Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314