Charlie Mack Kuntz

Charlie Mack Kuntz, 89, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away on January 31, 2025, at Bethlehem Woods Nursing Home, after a brief battle with cancerous sarcoma. Born in Dixon, Kentucky, on January 7, 1936, he was the son of William and Lena Kuntz. Charlie met his wife of 61 years, Joan (Goard) Kuntz, who preceded him in death in 2020, at Murray State University where Charlie earned his degree in education. His teaching career was interrupted when he was drafted to serve in the U.S. Army and moved to Seattle, Washington with Joan and their infant son. Once Charlie fulfilled his military service, the family moved to Washington, Indiana, and then Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 1965, where they made their permanent home, raising their two boys, Steve and John, and contributing to the community. Charlie taught industrial arts at South Side High School until he retired in 1992. In addition to being an educator, he was an advocate for skilled trades and vocational education. Charlie enjoyed golf throughout his life at both Orchard Ridge Country Club and Brookwood Golf Club, while also mentoring the next generation as a Golf Coach for Elmhurst High School Boys and Girls Golf Club. Charlie was an avid I.U. fan and a Freemason. As an only child, Charlie said he learned at a young age how to entertain himself and never felt lonely even when he was alone, which he said he appreciated even more in later life. Charlie was a friendly, fun, easy-going person, who was always up for a good time and could "spin a story" better than anyone. Whether he was talking about his life growing up in western Kentucky, the many adventures with his college buddies, or a road trip with Joan, friends and family were always engaged when he shared memories as he could paint a picture with his words. Charlie is survived by his son, John (Peggy) Kuntz of Fort Wayne; four grandchildren, Brandon and Benjamin (Trisha) Kuntz of Fort Wayne, Simon Kuntz of Indianapolis, and Caroline Kuntz of New York City; and his late son's widow, Maggie Smith of Indianapolis. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lena Kuntz; his wife, Joan, in 2020; and his eldest son, Steven Mack Kuntz, in 2008. At Charlie's request, the family will gather to share a meal and memories instead of holding a public funeral. Friends and relatives are encouraged to share memories online by signing the guestbook at www.advantagemungovan.com.