Obituary of John Kotlarski

John J. "JJ" Kotlarski, age 85, of Savona, NY, passed away peacefully on February 29, 2024, surrounded by the love and warmth of his wife, Annette. 
Born in Buffalo, NY on August 8, 1938, John lived a life marked by dedication to his family, service to his community, and a legacy of love that will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

John is survived by his devoted wife of sixty-five years, Annette L. "Annie" Kotlarski, who was also his childhood sweetheart. Their love story began in second grade at Grammar School Number 82 and continued to blossom throughout their lives. Together, they raised a beautiful family, including their four children, John (Joanna) Kotlarski, Colleen (Jim) Banik, Tracy (Todd) Harrian, and Dawn (Charlie) LaFritz. John took immense pride in his eleven grandchildren, James (Jessica) Banik, Brandon Banik (Ryan Pratt), Matthias LaFritz (Jasmine Palmieri), Jason (Ashley) Kotlarski, Dalton (Ariana) LaFritz, Jacob Kotlarski, Todd Harrian, Nick Harrian, Megan LaFritz (and fiancé Tayler Baumgartner), Nick Kotlarski, and Adam Kotlarski, as well as his six great-grandchildren, Hailey Banik, Grace Knapp, James Ryan Banik, Aubree Banik, Wade Harrian, and the soon-to-arrive Rin Anna LaFritz. John's sister, Judy Burns, along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members, will also hold his memory close to their hearts.

John's early years were spent in Buffalo, where he completed his education at Kensington High School in 1957. His commitment to public service was evident when he joined the New York State Police Academy in Albany in 1963. For twenty-five years, John served with honor and distinction, receiving numerous awards and medals for his outstanding service and professionalism before retiring in 1988. His post-retirement years included a brief tenure at Elmira Litho before he relocated to Clearwater, Florida, where he continued to enjoy his life to the fullest.

John was a man of many interests, but above all, he cherished the time spent with his family. He was an avid golfer, a seasoned hunter, and loved being out on the water on his boat. An active participant in his community, John was a proud member of the Lions Club of Campbell and the JC's of Campbell, where he made significant contributions through his involvement. John especially enjoyed participating in the yearly Variety Show through the Lions Club. 

Perhaps, one of John's most adored traditions was making Sunday dinners for his family. These gatherings were a testament to his loving, generous, and selfless nature. John's ability to bring people together over a meal and share in the joy of family was one of the many ways he expressed his love.

Preceded in death by his parents, Matthew and Rosalia Kotlarski, and several brothers and sisters, John's legacy is one of compassion, integrity, and the enduring power of family. He was a pillar of strength and kindness, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and lessons of love that will continue to guide those he loved.

John J. "JJ" Kotlarski will be deeply missed, yet his spirit will live on through the lives of his family and the many people he touched throughout his remarkable journey. His was a life well-lived, full of purpose and heart, and the memories he created will be treasured forever. As we say goodbye to this extraordinary man, we celebrate the indelible mark he has left on our hearts and the world.

Family and friends are invited to visitation on Thursday, March 7, 2024 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM with a service immediately following at Fagan’s Funeral Home, 31 West Morris Street, Bath, NY 14810. At the conclusion of the service, the family invites everyone to celebrate John’s life at the American Legion, 14 West William Street, Bath, NY 14810. 
In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s name may be made to Police Benevolent Association of NYS, 11 Pearl Street Suite 1200, Albany, NY 12207, phone number: (585) 433-5472, website: https://www.pbanys.org/pba/about-pba-nys/ and then click on the donate button.