Fred Kuntz

Fred Kuntz passed away on Monday, July 17, 2023, at the age of 100, at Fleur Heights Care Center in Des Moines.

Charles Frederick Kuntz was born on February 3, 1923, in Madison County, Iowa, to Charles and Myrtle (Ford) Kuntz. He grew up in Winterset and graduated from Winterset High School in 1941. He served in the US Army Air Force during WWII as a tail gunner on a B-17 for 50 combat missions over Europe, earning 5 bronze stars for his bravery and service.

On April 26, 1953, Fred married Joan Dabner. They embarked on a beautiful journey together, creating a life filled with love and cherished memories.

Following his passion for radio and television, Fred attended radio and TV school in Kansas City, where he honed his skills in broadcasting and engineering. He worked for KCBC Radio for 5 years and later joined WHO Radio & WHO TV Channel 13, where he spent an impressive 31 years as a Radio/TV engineer.

Over the course of his career at KCBC, he played an astounding 196,000 records, captivating audiences with his vast musical knowledge and distinctive voice. His contributions to the field of broadcasting were recognized and appreciated by countless listeners throughout the years.

Outside of work, Fred remained actively involved in his community. He was a proud member of St. John's Methodist Church and the Masonic Order, embodying the spirit of service and fellowship. Fred worked with the Iowa Theater in Winterset and participated in the recent restoration of the original projector, preserving the history of cinema for future generations.

Fred's technical expertise extended beyond the theater. He played a vital role in configuring the Alleman transmitter towers, ensuring that the flashing lights were perfectly synchronized. He provided invaluable revision and maintenance support for the WHO TV Live Eye and contributed to the installation of the 801 Grand antenna, leaving a lasting mark on the technological landscape.

Fred will forever be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his devoted wife, Joan; his son, Steven (Karen) Kuntz; and his beloved grandchildren, Eric, David, and Beth. Fred's feline companion, Sara Belle, was a cherished member of the family.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Myrtle Kuntz, as well as his brother, Dean Kuntz, and sisters, Helen Howell, Gen Hart, and Ruth Hart.

Fred shared his wartime experiences for the Veterans History Project for DMACC several years ago. His personal experiences are recorded at the Library of Congress, a significant honor. Preserving these stories allows future generations to understand the sacrifices and contributions of veterans, ensuring their stories are not forgotten. For those who wish to access Fred’s recorded story and learn more about his extraordinary life and service you can find it at https://www.loc.gov/resource/afc2001001.99392.mv0001001/

The family wishes to express their appreciation to the staff at Fleur Heights and especially Dr. Robert Conner for the care Fred received.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Friday July 21 at Simplify Funerals (4821 SW 9th St., Des Moines). On Saturday, July 22, the vehicle procession will begin at the Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Winterset Chapel around 10:00 a.m. and proceed to the Winterset Cemetery where the graveside service with military honors will be held at 10:30 a.m. Memorials may be directed to the family for a future designation.