Robert A Kunz

HENDERSON - Robert A. Kunz, 85, retired Ohio Fire Chief for Prairie Township Fire Dept. Station 241, passed away on March 25, 2024 in Henderson, NV.

He was born on March 14, 1939 in Galloway, OH, son of the late Fredrick and Kathryn Kunz.

Bob was a 1957 graduate of Grove City High School. During his youth, he was active in 4-H, FFA, and basketball. Afterwards, he enlisted in the US Army and served in Kornwestheim, Germany with the Military Police.

Even though he was a dedicated Farmer on his 305 acre family farm for 40 years, his biggest accomplishments were achieved with the fire department. Bob received numerous certificates and training in most areas of fire service including fire suppression, EMS, Investigations, Hazmat, Incident Command, and Chief Officer. He was appointed the first Fire Prevention Officer for Prairie in 1972.

He served 17 years with the Ohio Arson School Committee where he coordinated and instructed numerous arson detection seminars for SAFE. Bob developed the 1st Juvenile Firesetter program to be recognized by the Franklin County Municipal Court to ticket fire code violators. He performed 2 terms as President of the Central Ohio Fire Prevention Association and Prairie Twp. Firefighters Association as well as a past President and VP of the Southwest Arson and Fire Safety Education Association. Bob was proud to have served at Prairie Twp. Fire Dept. from 1961-1995, culminating as Fire Chief (1991-1995) until his retirement.

Bob loved his family immensely. He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Catherine “Cookie” (Shaner) Kunz; his adoring daughters, Lisa Ann Kunz and Patricia “Patsy” (Ray) Gouker. He was incredibly proud of his grandchildren whom he loved to spoil; Katie Ballou, Nick Ballou, and Megan Gouker. Bob is also survived by his sisters; Patricia Kunz Brundige and Kim (Dave) Thomas as well as his nephews, niece, and grand nephews and nieces. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister; Barbara (Neil) Distelhorst.

Prairie Twp Fire Dept Station 241 (123 Inah Ave., Columbus, OH 43228) has graciously offered to host a celebration of life for the family on Monday, April 22, 2024 at 11 am with a luncheon following. All are welcome.

A private family scattering of ashes on his parents’ graves will be held following the celebration of life at the Galloway Cemetery. Bob’s interment will be at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City, NV on May 1st at 10am.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Prairie Township Fire Fighters Association.