Andrew P. Buntz, 90, went home to his Heavenly Father on October 4, 2018. He was born June 19, 1928 in Des Moines, the son of Andrew and Mary (Grablin) Buntz. He attended St. Peter Catholic Elementary School. He went on to East High School where he lettered in football as being a four year starter at right tackle.

After high school graduation in 1946 he joined the U.S. Navy, and his service took him through the Panama Canal. While in the Navy his talents in football earned him the honor of being named “1st Team, All Navy Teams”. He played at North Island Naval Air Station, San Diego and Bainbridge, MD. After attending one of the games, Admiral Nimitz took time to personally meet the team.

Football continued for Andy when he attended the University of Iowa. He was a “walk on”. He lettered while being a starting tackle in 1949, 1950, 1951, also earning the title of “All-Time Letter” winners.

After graduating in 1952 with a business degree, Andy married the love of his life, Patricia Jean Anderson on February 1, 1953. He spent his career at Firestone. His work with new plant “start ups” took the family to California, Georgia, Oklahoma, Canada and France, resulting in a return voyage on the Queen Mary.

Throughout his life Andy’s faith guided him as a husband and father. He was a longtime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, “5-0” Club and Knights of Columbus. He was also a member of American Legion Post 274.

He enjoyed many vacations with his family, fishing in Canada, boating and water skiing on the Lake of the Ozarks and Grays Lake.

Andy will be remembered for his devotion to his family. He is survived by daughters, Debbie Buntz and Joann Billings; son, Mike (Kim); and grandchildren, Andrew, Katie (Eric) Nichols, Hailey, Nick and Cole. He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia in 2015 after 62 years of marriage; his parents; son-in-law Scott Billings; and siblings, Frank, Bill, Bob, Mary Burch and Alice Townsend.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 10 at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Glendale Cemetery. Visitation will be at Iles Grandview Park Chapel from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, October 9 concluding with a 7 p.m. Vigil Service. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 3300 Easton Boulevard in Des Moines, IA US 50317. Online condolences are welcome at IlesCares.com.