John Koontz
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John Koontz | |
|---|---|
| 11th Secretary of State of Nevada | |
| In office 1947–1973 | |
| Governor | Vail Pittman Charles H. Russell Grant Sawyer Paul Laxalt Mike O'Callaghan |
| Preceded by | Malcolm McEachin |
| Succeeded by | William D. Swackhamer |
| Personal details | |
| Born | October 19, 1902 Goldfield, Nevada, U.S. |
| Died | March 21, 1995 (aged 92) |
| Political party | Democratic |
John Koontz (October 19, 1902 – March 21, 1995) was an American politician who served as the Secretary of State of Nevada from 1947 to 1973.[1][2] He was the longest-serving politician to hold this office, winning 7 successive elections.[3] During his tenure, he established state archives and preserved all the valuable records.[2]
Koontz was born on October 19, 1906, in Goldfield, Nevada, to Louis Kossuth and Ada Mae Koontz. He worked as a miner, a cowpuncher, and a grocery store clerk.[4] He entered politics in 1934 when he was elected county recorder of Esmeralda County.[4]
From 1958 to 1959, Koontz served as president of the National Association of Secretaries of State. He worked as a campaign manager for Mary Gojack and Harry Reid.[5]
In 1973, he resigned from the office.[2]
Koontz died on March 21, 1995.[5]
