Marie Kathryn Koonts

Marie Kathryn Kugler Koonts, age 88, of Park Village Nursing Center at Dover, died peacefully Wednesday morning, August 29, 2012.

Born March 9, 1924, at Stone Creek, she was a daughter of the late Carl and Hazel Wasem Kugler.

Marie was a 1942 graduate of Stone Creek High School and went to work for the National Bank of Canton.

In May, 1946, she wed Nial Koonts – and they went on to observe fifty-eight years of marriage before his death in 2004.

She’ll be remembered for her love of animals, especially Irish Setters. Marie was a 59 year member of the McKinley Kennel Club and served as an officer within the club for many years, including a ten year term on the board of directors. In 2010, she was honored by the club with a lifetime membership. She and her husband became AKC show judges in 1972, and she continued in that capacity until 2007, when she was named emeritus judge.

Survivors include her brother, Ray Kugler of New Philadelphia, and two sisters; Donna Rummell of New Philadelphia and Ruth Draher of Dover.

Five nieces and six nephews complete the family.

In addition to her parents and husband, Marie is preceded in death by her brother Wayne Kugler, two sisters-in-law; Betty Kugler and Margaret Kugler, and two brothers-in-law; Don Draher and Dean Rummell.

The family will observe private visitation and a graveside service, where Marie will be laid to rest in Stone Creek Cemetery with her husband Nial.

Memorial contributions may be made to the McKinley Kennel Club, in care of Northminister Presbyterian Church, 237 West Maple Street, North Canton, OH 44720.