Chester Boyd Kottwitz, 78, of Montgomery City, passed away on October 25, 2026, at Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital. He was born October 21, 1948, in Ohlman, Ill., to August Milford and Mildred Merlene Kottwitz.
Known as “Chuck” to some, Chester attended school in Owensville and graduated from Owensville High School in May 1966. He proudly joined the United States Marine Corps in January 1967, transferred to the Marine Corps Reserve in April 1970 and was honorably discharged in December 1972. His decorations included the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, Vietnam Service Medal with two stars, two Good Conduct Medals and the Rifle Sharpshooter Badge.
Chester spent most of his working life as a maintenance man and handyman, eventually owning and operating his own business before retiring in 2017. Gifted at figuring out how to fix nearly anything, he was the person others called for difficult projects. He either did the work himself or patiently showed others how, believing that anything worth doing was worth doing right.
His greatest accomplishments, however, were the relationships he built. Chester was a loving, strong, understanding, and caring father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He allowed his children to have water-gun fights in the house and hit golf balls against his van, and even when they discovered his candy stash, he never moved it. He was always ready to help, teach or simply spend time with his family.
He especially enjoyed camping, fishing and time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His humor, warmth and willingness to join their adventures brought laughter and joy to everyday moments. His family will remember most of all the love he gave so freely.
Chester is survived by his daughters, Deborah Lorson and her husband, Jeramie Lorson, and Stephanie Blake; his grandchildren, Zachary Kottwitz, Kristina Blake, Melissa Volmert and her husband, Dylan, Lauren Shaw, William Lorson and his wife, Erin, and Darlene Lorson and her spouse, Christopher Dean; his great-grandchildren, Karoline Simms and River Lorson; his brother, George Kottwitz and his wife, Melanie; his sisters, Bertha Miller and her husband, Donald, Loretta Ward and her husband, Rodney, and Peggy Florence; as well as more than 15 nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, August Milford Kottwitz and Mildred Merlene Kottwitz; and his brothers, Donald Kottwitz, Milford Kottwitz and Gary Kottwitz.
Chester’s family will forever carry memories of his strength, humor, helpfulness and unconditional love. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
