Service Information
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.
Gathering of Family and Friends will be held from 9:00-10:30 A.M., one and a half hours prior to the service at the church.
Obituary
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, 1966s.
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.
Denis passed away on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Harmony River Living Center in Hutchinson, at the age of 82 years.
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.
Sara Groskreutz says
Oh Sherry, I’m so sorry to hear about Denis’ passing. He was one of the sweetest men I’ve ever met. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Mike Daak says
Scott and family, Sorry for your loss. Cherish the memories.
Ava Tenney says
He was an awesome great grandfather to me and all of my cousins and I hope that my grandmother is doing okay and to bless their hearts. He will be missed so much .
Pam Groskreutz says
Sherry, I’m heartbroken to hear of Denis’ passing. He was a really sweet person. My parents adored him. I’m sure they met him in heaven. Hugs.
Charleen Block says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Sherry. Denis was such a nice man. Loved his stories.
Karen Kranz says
Sherry and Scott. So Sorry for your loss. Deepest Sympathy. Karen and Jeff Kranz
Schramm's says
Sherry and Family, so sorrow to hear this news! Denis was such a nice man and always friendly! May he rest in Peace.
Allen and Ann Schramm
Richard Krueger says
We are very sorry Sherry. Denis always had time to visit when we met. Always a friend and fellow Veteran. Rick and Mary Krueger
Jerry & Charleen Block says
So sorry Sherry. Denis will be sadly missed by his 40&8 friends. We had a lot of fun times together.
Beth Fruetel says
Tom and I send our sincerest sympathy in the loss of Denis. Sending prayers to your family.
Val Roepke Uecker says
My Sympathy to the family. God will give you strength during this sad time. Sherry and Scott—just cherish the memories you have and hold them close to your heart. Sending prayers and hugs!!
Jeanne Wick Kulas Wick Kulas says
I worked with Denis at L.C.S. in Winona, MN many years ago. He was always well liked, with everyone he worked with, including me. Sorry for your loss. R.I.P. , Denis
KAthy Bauer says
Sherry and Scott, my deepest sympathy to you and your family! You are in my prayers!
Kathy Bauer