Ernest Paul Koontz

Retired USAF, Master Sergeant Ernest Paul Koontz, 78, passed away Friday, March 29, 2019 in Weatherford, Texas.
Services: Visitation, Thursday, 6-8 pm at Lucas Funeral Home, 700 W. Wall St., Grapevine.
Graveside Service, Friday, 1:00 pm at Dallas/ Fort Worth National Cemetery, 200 Mountain Creek Pkwy., Dallas.
In lieu of floral tributes, the family suggests consideration of a donation to The North Texas Patriot Guard Riders in his memory.

Ernest was born September 14, 1940 in Vinita, Oklahoma to Hubert and Nancy Koontz. He graduated from Bellaire High School in Houston, Texas in 1959. Ernest joined the United States Air Force in 1961. His extensive USAF career consisted of Basic Training at Lackland A.F.B. in 1961; 2852nd Air Base Wing at McClellan A.F.B. 1961-1962; 641st Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron at Goose Bay, 1962-1963; 3320th Air Base Group in Amarillo, 1964-1967; U.S. Disciplinary Barracks at Fort Leavenworth, 1967-1975; 388th Tactical Fighter Wing at Korat, Thailand, 1975-1976; 7th Bombardment Wing at Carswell A.F.B.from 1976 - 1982. He retired after 21 1/2 years of service. His Commendations include; Air Force and United States Army Commendation Medals; Air Force Good Conduct Medal with 1 Silver Oak Leaf Cluster; Air Force Outstanding Unit Citation; Air Force Small Arms Expert; Royal Thailand National Defense Medal; Air Force Longevity Service Medal with 4 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters. In his Air Force Career, Ernest was an Air Policeman, Corrections Officer and O.S.I. Agent.
In October of 1982, Ernest started working for Watauga Department of Public Safety and retired after 20 years in 2002. His Civilian Career consisted of being a Patrol Officer, C.I.D. Detective, Sergeant & Patrol Supervisor and Firefighter.
Ernest married the love of his life, Wanda Corene Watson on July 3, 1965 in Amarillo, Texas. He loved being on his motorcycle. Ernest was a member and past President of the Blue Knights Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club. He was involved in his community with the Watauga City Council and he was a member of the 7th Bomb Wing S.P.S. Association.
Ernest preceded in death by his parents, brother, Hubert F. Koontz, and his wife Wanda Corene Koontz. He is survived by his daughter, LaNetta Royce Addy and her husband Carlton; granddaughter, Shelby Anne Rodriguez, R.N. and husband Petty Officer Zerek Rodriguez, USN; sister-in-law, Joan Koontz; brother-in-law, Bill Watson and wife Joye; nieces and nephews, and many more family and friends.