Jerry Kuntz, a cherished figure in USA Wrestling, passed away on Monday at the age of 69 after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer that began in early March of this year.
Jerry was an outstanding referee, coach, and mentor. He made a big impact on many lives and left behind a meaningful legacy.
Above all, he was a devoted husband to his wife, Nancy, who stood by his side through every success and challenge.
Wrestling Friends, Please pray for Jerry Kuntz and his wife Nancy. Jerry is at home on hospice. He has been on hospice a couple of weeks. pic.twitter.com/f8VG5V8rC9
— Nate Gomez (@NateGomez) May 14, 2025
Jerry met the love of his life, Nancy Turinsky, in 1989 when she was teaching at Putnam City High School and he went there to teach history and coach.
He quickly turned an English teacher/librarian into a wrestling fan.
From that moment on, they were inseparable until Jerry’s last breath, giving him courage and filling his life with love and care.
Jerry Was Born In Okarche, OK, On June 25, 1955, To Bernice And Kenneth Kuntz.
Jerry Kuntz attended Okarche schools from first through 12th grades, where at just seven years old, he was spotted by a wrestling coach on the basketball court and recruited for the mat, destined to wrestle.
That moment sparked a lifelong passion for the sport, and growing up in Yukon, Oklahoma, Jerry became known for his dedication.
He never missed a single day of school in 12 years, earning a certificate at his high school graduation for his perfect attendance. His discipline and commitment would define his life.
After high school, Jerry pursued his dreams with the same determination.
He attended radio broadcasting school and earned a first-class license before enrolling at Central State University (now the University of Central Oklahoma).
There, he wrestled on the university team from 1974 to 1977, developing friendships and memories that would last a lifetime.
After college, he began a teaching and coaching career that left a memorable mark on Oklahoma’s wrestling community.
He started at Chickasha Junior High School, then moved to Clinton High School, Hefner Junior High, Putnam City High School, and Casady School.
As a high school wrestling coach, Jerry scored 199-78, guiding 16 individual state champions to victory. His ability to inspire young athletes was unmatched.
Jerry’s coaching ability also shone on the national stage when he led Team Oklahoma to freestyle national championships in 1988, 1989, and 1990.
In 1994, USA Wrestling named him Developmental Coach of the Year, proving his ability to nurture talent.
Beyond wrestling, Jerry also coached football and track, pouring his heart into every sport he touched.
Jerry Kuntz Was Not Just A Coach But Also One Of The Finest Wrestling Officials In The Country
His reputation for fairness and expertise in both folkstyle and international styles earned him respect across the globe.
He was an NCAA official from 1991 to 2014 and a FILA official from 1997 to 2014.
His career took him to international tournaments, including a memorable trip to Cuba in 2013 and his final event in Mongolia in 2014.
In 2006, USA Wrestling named Jerry Official of the Year, recognizing his dedication to the sport.
He served on the U.S. Wrestling Officials Association’s executive board from 2002 to 2024, including as chairman of the ethics committee.
His contributions to officiating were honored with the USWOA’s Phil Portuese Award in 2010 for developing young officials and the Mort Geller Award in 2012 for his work with international officials.
Jerry’s impact on wrestling earned him numerous accolades. In 2005, he received the Oklahoma Wrestling Lifetime Achievement Award.
In 2008, the Oklahoma chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame presented him with the Lifetime Service to Wrestling Award.
In 2014, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame honored him as a Meritorious Official.
Just months before his passing, in March 2025, Jerry received the Tom Moore Award from the Western Oklahoma Officials Association for his unwavering support of wrestling.
For over 30 years, Jerry officiated championships at every level of competition, from local matches to Olympic-style events.
His knowledge, integrity, and passion made him a cornerstone of the wrestling community.
Many People Expressed Their Love When They Heard About Jerry’s Death
A longtime college friend and fraternity brother shared a heartfelt message:
“Jerry was my roommate in college, fraternity brother, on the wrestling team with me. I couldn’t have had a better friend through life. We spoke of Christ and how he has changed us from being what we were to who we are now.Jerry’s good to go & I’m asking for prayers for his lovely wife Nancy, to have the Lord comfort her at this time. They were made for each other and she has been a solid rock for Jerry. We & I’m speaking for all who know you & Jerry we love you two very much!”
Via Facebook
Another friend, who met Jerry at a national wrestling tournament, recalled their first encounter:
“Jerry was the Mat Judge on a mat I was coaching and I didn’t agree with a call (weird😂 )….I protested to Jerry and I remember as I walked away from him I thought to myself, “that is a good official.” I lost the argument, but the way Jerry handled me, and my position, he earned my respect. After the match, Jerry waved me over and said, “let’s talk”…..Jerry was interested in my perspective and wanted to hear me out. I remember Jerry saying, “I respect how much time and effort you invest in these young men,” that went a long ways with me. We became friends, purely from a mutual respect for one another.
Via Facebook
Jerry….Thank You! 🙏 May You Rest In Peace and may we meet again one day, My Friend…God Bless Jerry Kuntz!🙏🧡
Corey Carter, one of Jerry’s students, shared:
“Jerry was good to us all. He was like my mentor in the 12 years as I have been a ref. Saddens me to know he’s gone. He’s helped a lot of my family through the years starting with uncle David and Chris all the way down to me and my brothers and sister who wrestles to this day.”
Via Facebook
Jerry Kuntz’s legacy is one of dedication, kindness, and a deep love for wrestling and his community.
Through his work with young wrestlers and officials, he inspired athletes, officials, and friends and left a lasting impact on future generations.
He shaped the lives of athletes, officials, and friends, leaving behind a blueprint for excellence and compassion. His work with young wrestlers and officials will continue to inspire future generations.
As the wrestling community mourns his loss, they also celebrate his life.
Jerry Kuntz’s memory will live on in the hearts of those he coached, officiated, and loved—especially his beloved wife, Nancy, who shared every moment of his remarkable journey.
Rest In Peace, Jerry Kuntz.
