Brian Douglas Koontz

Brian Douglas Koontz, aka “BK,” 61 years old, passed away on Saturday, September 14, 2024 in his home in Oak Point, Texas, peacefully and surrounded by family. He was born on February 23, 1963 in Fort Collins, Colorado, to Barbara and Bradford Koontz.

Brian is survived by his wife Lynda, son Nick (Liz); daughter Samantha; son Alex (Savannah); grandchildren Sutton, Mila, Peyton, and Cameron; parents Brad and Barbara; sister Monica (Dave); and brother Mike (Sherry). He’s also survived by loving family Laura, David, Steve (Karen), Dolores, Gabby, and Michelle.

Brian graduated from Southern Illinois University in 1985, where he met Lynda, his wife. They were married on December 31, 1988 in Peoria, Illinois.

Brian’s friends and family know him for his unwavering integrity, reliability, and a talent for balancing good humor and strength that can’t be replicated. Those close to him also knew that beneath a stoic exterior was a deeply compassionate soul who showed love to people through taking a sincere interest in their success, sharing advice, helping with projects, or lending an ear.

As an avid sports fan having lived in several big cities, his loyalty was fairly divided between St. Louis and Dallas. He was also a passionate cook, a traveler, and a huge lover of music. His knack for writing emerged when he would dedicate hours to building travel itineraries and later documenting the highlights of each trip.

A family man to his core, Brian’s happy place was a warm spot on the back porch. He would never turn down a themed get-together, be it a movie marathon or a jersey-clad sports viewing party.

Throughout his youth and time living in Minnesota, his love of hockey took hold. Brian played both roller hockey and ice hockey for most of his life, and carried on playing on his Dallas team, Guns ‘N’ Hoses, until 2022. When he retired, it was briefly renamed “Koontz’s Den” in his honor.

He began a long and successful career in retail in St. Louis at Famous-Barr and later May Company. He also started his own storage business, Milestone Storage Condominiums. In 2010, Brian made his most significant career move - accepting a role with JCP in Plano, TX. His work officially started that January, while his wife and kids stayed behind to finish the school year before making the move to join him that summer.

He spent time in a variety of different departments during his 12-year tenure, though his areas of expertise included planning and allocation, financial strategy, and vendor relations. Brian was deeply respected in the workplace, where his leadership and kindness forged not only a loyal team of coworkers but lifelong friends, many of which he considered family.

Following his retirement, he found joy on the golf course, savoring good cigars, and most importantly, spending time with his loved ones.

He was our warrior and fought harder than most ever would. There won't be a day we don't think about Brian and the memories he gave us. We'll miss his quick-witted sense of humor, warm smile, and unwavering guidance in all aspects of our lives.

The family would like to offer their sincerest gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and medical professionals who gave Brian the best care possible throughout the years. They also want to acknowledge the love and support they have received from all of their friends and loved ones.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a celebration of life at Milestone Church - Mckinney campus on Monday, September 30, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. The family will be wearing blue to honor our St. Louis roots and Brian’s love for the Blues. All flowers ordered for the family should be delivered to Milestone Church in McKinney, Texas.

Following the service, all are welcome to a special celebration luncheon at Fifth Street Pizza in Allen, where St. Louis-style pizza will be enjoyed and cold drinks raised in Brian’s honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) in Brian’s honor.