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YOUNGSTOWN - Patrick Joseph Koontz, 73, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026, following a courageous three-year battle with leukemia.
Pat was born on May 31, 1953, in Youngstown, the second-oldest son of the late Albert and Delores Grady Koontz. A lifelong resident of the Youngstown area, he graduated from Chaney High School in 1971.
Affectionately known as “Pat Man,” Pat spent many years doing what he loved as a bartender at the Living Room, Colonial House and, finally, the Springfield Grille. His warm personality, genuine kindness and welcoming nature made him a beloved presence to countless customers and friends. He had a special way of making everyone feel comfortable and at home, forming lasting friendships wherever he went.
A passionate sports fan, Pat proudly followed the San Francisco 49ers and the Cleveland Indians. He also enjoyed visiting casinos, playing the lottery and Keno, and spending time at Mill Creek Park. These simple pleasures brought him happiness and created many cherished memories with family and friends.
A member of St. Charles Church, Pat valued family, friendship, and the simple joys of life. He will be remembered for his kindness, sincerity, and the courage and strength he showed throughout his illness.
Pat leaves behind his loving wife, Laurie Zychowski Koontz, whom he married on Sept. 16, 2012; his brothers, Gregory (Polly) Koontz of Houston, Texas, James (Natalie) Koontz of Youngstown and Thomas (Karen) Koontz of Canfield; and his sister, Colleen Collins of Hilton Head, South Carolina. He also leaves behind one sister-in-law, Joni Gregg, and her husband Dave of Greensburg, Pa.; two brothers-in-law, Jan Zychowski, and his wife, Kathy, and David Zychowski and his wife, Linda, all of Baden, Pa. He also leaves behind many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins who will forever cherish his memory.
In addition to his parents, Pat was preceded in death by his brothers, Michael Koontz and infant brother John Koontz; his sister-in-law, Mara Koontz; and his brother-in-law, Michael Collins.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Pat’s doctors, Dr. Nino Rubino, Dr. Sayed M. Yossef, and Dr. John Graham, for their dedicated care and compassion throughout his illness. Sincere thanks are also extended to the hospice team for the comfort and support provided during Pat’s final days, as well as to the nurses, family members, and dear friends who offered prayers, care, and unwavering support.
Their kindness and generosity will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.
Calling hours will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, and from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home in Canfield.
A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. Thursday at St. Catherine of Siena Parish-St. Charles Church, in Boardman.
Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Boardman.
(special notice)