Van H Kountz, a beloved educator, coach, and family man, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas, at the age of 89. Born on October 12, 1935, in Pecos, Texas, Van lived a life full of passion, and dedication.
A proud graduate of Ft. Davis High School and later Texas Tech University, Van’s journey took him through the halls of education, where he shaped the minds of countless students for over 60 years. His athleticism shone through when he played as a left-handed quarterback for Angelo State’s football team before transferring to Texas Tech. After receiving his bachelor’s degree, Van served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Puerto Rico as part of the Counter Intelligence Corps.
Following his service to our country, Van taught and coached girls’ basketball in Ackerly, Texas. There he took the team to a state championship. Van’s life was intertwined with the love of his life, Shirley, whom he married on August 25, 1961, in Ackerly, Texas. Together, they built a family and a life full of adventures, including their joint ministry at Wedgewood until circumstances changed due to COVID. Known for his musical talents, Van also shared his love for music as a worship leader in Klondike and Gail, Texas, playing guitar, banjo, and a variety of instruments.
Devoted to his family, he was a tireless supporter, and he took immense joy in cheering on his grandchildren. An avid fan of the Lady Raiders Basketball Team, Van traveled far and wide to support his family’s and Tech’s sports endeavors, making memories that his loved ones will cherish forever.
Van’s passions extended beyond education; he loved camping, trout fishing, gardening, playing 42, working on model military airplanes and leatherwork.
Van is survived by his daughters, Debra (Russell) Leonard, and Sandra (Russell) McCorkle; grandchildren, Rhea Lynn (Kyle) Kaufman, Ashley K (Matt) Roche, Weston Caleb (Hailey) Leonard, Ryan George (Jordan) Pease, Amy JaVonn (Nolan) Waggoner, and Austin James McCorkle; great-grandchildren, Kollins Rhea Kaufman, Kash Buddy Kaufman, Kaden J Roche, Hudson Reed Roche, Coleman Jett Waggoner, Turner Drew Waggoner, Kate Ryan Waggoner, Grayson George Pease, Emerson Blake Pease, Rhys Russell Leonard, and Callum Ashe Leonard; sister-in-law, Dorothy Harry; and his dog, Keeper.
Van was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Kountz; parents, W.C. and Kathleen Kountz; brother, Chris Kountz; and a sister-in-law, Wanda Chapman; as well as many four legged companions over the years.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the amazing staff at Raider Ranch, who became like family as they cared for Van with love and devotion.
Funeral services to honor Van H Kountz will take place on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. A visitation will be held at 10:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 AM, at Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers. Please visit www.memorialdesigners.net for a service broadcasting schedule, floral purchasing, and an area to share stories of Mr. Kountz with his family.
Memorial donations can be made to the Bloys Campmeeting Association at bloyscampmeeting.org.
Van will be deeply missed but will forever be remembered for his contributions to education, family, the game of basketball, and for the love that he shared throughout his life.
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