Denis J. Kotlarz, age 82, of Hutchinson, Minnesota, passed away on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Harmony River Living Center in Hutchinson. Memorial Service will be held Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at River of Hope Lutheran Church in Hutchinson.
Denis James Kotlarz was born on August 12, 1942, in Arcadia, Wisconsin. He was the son of Benedict and Armella (Zywicki) Kotlarz. Denis was baptized as an infant and later confirmed in his faith. He received his education in Winona, Minnesota, and was a graduate of the Cotter High School.
Denis entered active military service in the United States Army on March 11, 1964 and served his country during the Vietnam War. He received an Honorable Discharge on March 8, 1966.
On September 13, 1968, Denis was united in marriage to Sherry Pape at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona, Minnesota. This marriage was blessed with one son, Scott. They shared 56 years of marriage.
Denis was employed as a Tool and Die Maker for Hutchinson Technologies Inc. and Crown Cork & Seal. He retired in 2005. Denis was a member of the DAV, Hutchinson 40 & 8, and the American Legion Post 96.
Denis enjoyed fishing and hunting. He was always willing to volunteer and loved to share stories. Family gatherings were important to Denis and he cherished spending time with family and friends.
Blessed be his memory. Denis is survived by his:
Wife, Sherry Kotlarz of Hutchinson, MN;
Son, Scott Kotlarz and his wife, Renee of Hutchinson, MN;
Grandchildren, Nyssa Johnson, Taylor Fruetel (Aric Rolf), Gage Kotlarz (Kaylee Venier), Peyton Kotlarz (Michael Raatz);
Great-grandchildren, Ava, Cameron, Mason, Landon, and Oliver;
Sisters, Bev Arnoldy (Dave), Nancy Borchert, Pat Sweningson;
Brothers, Gary Kotlarz, Kevin Kotlarz;
Many other relatives and friends.
Denis is preceded in death by his Parents, Benedict and Armella Kotlarz; Brother-in-law, Roger Borchert; Sister-in-law, Donna Kotlarz.
Arrangements by the Dobratz-Hantge Funeral Chapel in Hutchinson. Online Obituaries and Guest Book available at www.hantge.com.
DENIS KOTLARZ
