Robert P. Coontz ’67
Source: https://obituaries.forestlawn.com/obituaries/robert-coontz
Robert “Bob” Coontz, born on November 28th, 1944, in Worcester, Massachusetts, passed away on October 30th, 2025, in Burbank, California. Bob lived a remarkable life defined by deep familial bonds, professional successes, and cherished memories with friends and loved ones.
Family was at the heart of Bob’s life. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Yvette, and found tremendous pride in his children, Kylie, Thad, Kris, and grandchildren, Greta, William, and Maximillian Coontz. He was the eldest brother to his five siblings and is survived by Clare Merva, Eric, Raymond, and Otto Coontz. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Clare and Gus Coontz, as well as his sister, Eppy.
Some of the fondest memories cherished by his family are the countless cookouts he and Yvette frequently hosted by their pool, bringing friends and family together for laughter and celebration. Bob’s legacy will live on through the love and cherished moments he shared with those he loved.
Bob was known for his kind nature, sharp intellect, and boundless sense of humor. He enjoyed various hobbies, including skiing, golfing, tennis, Rose Bowl tailgating, and wine. His Austrian roots were a source of pride, and he nurtured a deep love for animals, particularly his many beloved dogs.
After graduating from North High in Worcester, MA, he joined the United States Marine Corps as a PFC, earning the designation of Sharpshooter. Upon completing his service, Bob enrolled at Saint Michael’s College in Winooski, Vermont, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree. He later earned an MBA from Clark University in Worcester, MA.
Bob’s career spanned several fields where he achieved great success. He began in banking at Guaranty Bank in Worcester and then at Woonsocket Savings, where he quickly rose to Vice President. He then brought his talents to Disney World, where he spent 15 years, serving as Head of Participant Affairs and was instrumental in the launch of Epcot and Tokyo Disneyland. Eventually settling at Disney Headquarters in Burbank. His ultimate calling presented itself when he accepted the Head of Development position for The Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum, which introduced him to his true passion for the nonprofit sector. He devoted much of his later career in public education reform to Charter Education, serving as Head of Development for the Los Angeles Education Partnership (LAEP), CFO for the California Charter School Associations (CCSA), and ultimately as CEO of CharterSAFE. Then, he retired in 2018.