Arthur Koutnik

Arthur Koutnik, 87 of Bellaire, passed peacefully at home Nov. 26, 2016. He was born Feb. 18, 1929 in Chicago, the son of Jerry A. Sr. and Mary (Janacek) Koutnik. On Aug. 28, 1950, he married the love of his life Roberta M Patton. Together they moved north to Bellaire to make it their permanent home. Art retired as Vice President from Lamina after 43 years and because of his dedicated service to the company, Lamina donated $10,000 in his honor to the Village of Bellaire for the Richardi Park. Art was an avid pilot and built and owned several planes throughout his life. He helped grow the Bellaire airport into the fine airport it is today. His favorite flying memory was flying to San Diego with his son Bob on a military refueling trip. He was a proud member of the EAA and AOPA. Art was a founding member of the Bellaire Rifle and Pistol club, now known as the Bellaire Conservation Club. He loved to shoot and target practice and spent years helping others learn to shoot and enjoy the sport. He was also a proud member of the NRA. Art was instrumental in the Bellaire District Fire Department and was on their board for over 20 years. Art's handprints can be found on most things in Bellaire. From the buildings downtown, to helping farmers in the country side, working on endless projects at the airport and fire department; Art was involved in the community and will be greatly missed. In his spare time he loved to be with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles, boats, his tractors and many other grown up toys. Surviving Art is his wife of 66 years Roberta, son Robert (Geri) Koutnik of Grayling, sister Irene Tyrakowski of Hickory Hills, IL, granddaughters Sara (Cameron) Biery and Kathryn (Alex) Farly, and great grandchildren Logan, Madeline, Henry and Joseph. He was preceded in death by his brothers William, Jerry Jr., and Ralph. Memorial services will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions can be directed to the Bellaire District Fire Department or the Conservation Club. Arrangements have been handled by the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.