Robert “Bob” Herrmann Kouns, 86, of South Shore, Kentucky, passed away on January 31, 2026, at UK King’s Daughters Medical Center in Ashland, Kentucky, surrounded by family. He was born on November 1, 1939, to the late William “Bill” and Mary Alice Harr Kouns.
Bob left an undeniable mark on those who knew him, making a significant impact as a teacher, player, coach, official, and, above all, as a man known for his integrity and character.
Throughout his career, Bob became a prominent figure in 16th Region athletics, excelling both as a player and a coach. He went on to establish a remarkable legacy as a three-sport official, mentoring numerous officials and earning the respect of coaches, players, and fans across the state.
Bob also touched countless lives as a teacher. After graduating from William Carey College in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, he began his teaching career at Bayou View Junior High School. He later returned to Kentucky, where he taught at Lewis County and McKell Junior High and High Schools, ultimately finishing his career at Greenup County High School. He retired in 1996 with over 35 years of teaching experience.
In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his brothers, William “Bill” and Charles “Chuck” Kouns.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Diana Quillen Kouns; three daughters: Melissa (Darrell) Welch of Chesapeake, Ohio, Stephanie (Mike) Suttman of Dayton, Ohio, and Laura (Tim) Sublett of South Shore, Kentucky. He also leaves behind one son, Robert H. (Jane) Kouns of West Portsmouth, Ohio, along with thirteen wonderful grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Additional survivors include his brother, Chester (Trish) Kouns of South Shore, Kentucky, and three sisters: Dana Hickle and Beverly Dalton, both from South Shore, Kentucky, and Fonteen (Ron) Nelson from West Portsmouth, Ohio. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Claude (Ruth) Quillen of South Portsmouth, Kentucky. Bob will be greatly missed by many friends, family members, and the local community, which he was a cherished member of.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of South Shore, Kentucky. Visitation will take place from 12:00 PM until the funeral starts at 1:00 PM.
A special visitation will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Greenup Christian Church in Greenup, Kentucky, due to anticipated weather and the expected number of attendees.
Burial will occur at a later date in a private ceremony with family.
He is under the care of Morton-Hunt Family Funeral Home in South Shore, Kentucky.
