Arnold "Arnie" Kuntz

Arnold "Arnie" R. Kuntz, 79, of Rochester, MN died Saturday, September 1, 2018 surrounded by family in Rochester. Arnold Ralph Kuntz was born April 23, 1939 in Dickinson, North Dakota the son of Valentine and Mary (Dolechek) Kuntz. He grew up on the family farm in North Dakota and graduated from South Heart High School. He also became a certified piano tuner technician. At the age of 18, Arnie moved to Rochester and began work at St. Marys hospital before working at Welhaven Music and tuning pianos. He retired from Welhaven after 50 years, but continued his love for tuning and restoring pianos. In 1968, he married Lois Hammermeister and raised two children, Cheryl and Chad. Arnie and Lois would be celebrating their 50th anniversary in November. Arnie also raised four children Jeffrey, Judy, Lisa and Renee from a previous marriage. Arnie's passion was family and music. He continued to play accordion at family gatherings and retirement homes. He enjoyed camping, fishing, playing catch, hiking and bon fires. He would bring everyone together with a card game of Durak and sing-a-longs with the accordion. Back in the day he enjoyed a serious game of horse shoes, and dabbling in making leather goods. Arnie was an active member of Redeemer Lutheran Church and played drums in the Praise band. He is survived by his wife, Lois Kuntz of Rochester; and his 5 children; Cheryl (Rodney) Prouty of Rochester, Chad (Melissa) Kuntz of Rochester, Judy (Andy) Meinke-Streit of Oronoco, Lisa (Dale) Martinson of Rochester, Renee (Jerry) Babcock of Owatonna; 12 Grandchildren; 6 Great Grandchildren; siblings, Dorothy Dukart, John (Bertha) Kuntz, August (Florence) Kuntz, Magdelyn Pachl and Peter Kuntz. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Jeffrey Kuntz and his sister Darlene Kuntz. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 6, 2018 at Redeemer Lutheran Church 869 7th Ave SE, Rochester, MN. Visitation will be held from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN on Wednesday, September 5, 2018 and visitation one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday. To leave a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 507-289-3600