Eugene F. Kottwitz

Eugene Fred Kottwitz, a longtime resident of Belle, died Thursday, June 26, 2014 at the Frene Valley Nursing Home, in Owensville, Missouri. He was 86 years old. Gene was born on March 22, 1928 in Bland, Missouri, the son of the late Fred and Elsie Paasch Kottwitz. On November 6, 1948, Gene was married to Wanda June Hassler.

Surviving Gene are his children, Gaye Lynne and her husband Paul Sorrell of Rolla, Missouri and Rodney and his wife Vicki Kottwitz of Katy, Texas. Gene is also survived by his granddaughters, Brooke and her husband, Chris Poskin and Lauren and her husband, Cody Askins and step-grandchildren, Morgan, Kayli, and Jon Clark Bull. On April 23, 2014, Gene became the proud great-grandpa to Christopher James (C.J.) Poskin, Jr. Gene leaves behind many nieces, nephews and friends too numerous to mention, but not forgotten. Gene leaves his special friend, Mrs. Jean Atkins, whose guidance and friendship was truly enjoyed.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Wanda, his brother, Wilber, his sister, Verlee and his parents.

Gene served in the United States Marines from February 1952 through March 1954. Gene was a well-known and respected mechanic, working for Harry Swanson Chevrolet and McQueen Chevrolet until he opened Gene's Motor Service. Gene loved to fly airplanes, ride his motorcycle, camp, fish, and spending time with his grandchildren. Gene enjoyed attending jam sessions and playing his "guitar for dummies". Gene never met a stranger and was a kind and compassionate person to all. Gene was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Belle.

A visitation will be held on Monday, June 30, 2014 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Belle. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Bro. Jimmy Bickell officiating. Interment will be held at the Liberty Cemetery near Belle.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the First Baptist Church of Belle.