Archived Services

Jessica "Jess" Kontz
05-26-2021

Jessica “Jess” Leigh Kontz Passed away on May 26, 2021 in Edina, Minnesota at the age of 35. Jess was born June 17, 1985 to Kevin and Marilee Kontz in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Jess graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2009 with a degree in Sports Recreation and Leisure Studies with emphasis on Tour and Travel.

 Jess has many joys in her life. She loved spending her free time camping, fishing, and boating at the lake; many times, playing the role of amateur meteorologist. Jess enjoyed her friends, playing softball, and traveling whenever she could. Her friends and family will remember Jess’ infectious laugh and her gorgeous bright smile, her sense of loyalty, willingness to help others in need, and her compassionate soul.

Jess had a way of making people feel loved. She brought the spirit and always the laughter. Her singing could bring tears because it was so beautiful and pure; it came from her soul, and you could feel it. In her awesome giving trait, Jess donated her beautiful brown eyes so someone else could see the world.  

Jess is survived by her parents: Kevin (Lyn Roetzel), Arnold’s Park, IA and Marilee Kontz (Bruce Livesay), Sioux Falls, SD; brother: Nick Kontz, Sioux Falls;step-brother: Jeff Iwerks (Mary), Sioux Falls, step-sister: Jen Iwerks, Sioux Falls; grandpa: Joe Huff, Sioux Falls; aunt: Vicki Hayes, Sioux Falls; uncle: Ken Rausch, New Underwood, MN; her aunts: Carol Huff, Sioux City, IA, LaNeda (Clarence) Kuehler, Crofton, NE; Julie (Jim) Delperdang, Okoboji, IA; Nancy (Jim) Brennfleck, Elkhart Lake WI; Mary (Gale) Oleson, Lee’s Summit, MO; as well as dozens of cousins and other extended family members. Jess was preceded in death by her grandparents: Gerald and LaVonne Kontz; her grandmother: Mary Huff; her aunt: Michelle Rausch; her uncle: Joe Huff; and her uncle: Pat Hayes.

Memorials may be directed to: Face It Together for the Jess L. Kontz Scholarship Fund; 5020 South Tennis Lane #4, Sioux Falls, SD 57108.

Visitation will be 9:30 AM Saturday, June 19, at Barnett-Lewis Funeral Home with a Memorial Service at 10:30 AM.