Gerald W. Hottinger

York--Gerald William ("Jerry") Hottinger, age 77, of Springfield Township, York, and Palmetto, Florida, died at home in the arms of his wife on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. He was the loving husband of Patti (Burke) Kuhn who was grateful for each day of his life. 

 Jerry was born April 16, 1947, in York, the son of the late Joseph W. Hottinger and the late Virginia (Clem) Hottinger. He was a 1965 graduate of Northeastern High School and a 1973 graduate of Millersville State College. He served honorably in the U.S. Air Force from 1966 to 1970. He retired from the Pennsylvania State Department of Education as an Educational Statistician Director in 2007 after thirty-five years. He was a member of Salem Christian Church in Jacobus.

 Jerry was active in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 22-02 in Pikesville, Maryland, and he and Patti served as chefs aboard cutters at sea, finishing their bucket list of sailing the seven seas and hiking the seven continents. Their adventures and service around the world brought new friendships from the Arctic ((Utqiagvik) to Antarctica, Australia, Thailand, Singapore, Spain, South America, and Africa. With Parkinson's limiting Jerry's travel, they began hosting families from around the world, bringing the friendships home.

 In addition to his soulmate and wife and his companion dog "Daisy," Jerry is survived by his step-children, Carolyn Kuhn Dillian (Jared), Benjamin Kuhn (Kristy), and Kevin Kuhn (Katie), six step-grandchildren, a sister, Jo Ann Bair (Alan), a brother, Keith Hottinger (Linda), and many loving nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Bruce Hottinger. He will also be fondly remembered by many "adopted" Coasties and families from around the world who always brought a smile to his face.

 A military service with full honors will be held at Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, PA, on Friday, November 22, 2024 at 2:00 PM (arrive early), followed by a Celebration of Life and Blanket of Honor Ceremony and open house at his home at 568 Valley Road, York, PA 17403, from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Veterans and guests are encouraged to wear their uniform or something patriotic to honor Jerry's service to his country. Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc., 1551 Kenneth Rd, York is in charge of arrangements. 

 In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Jerry's life to: The Momentum Program at the Jewish Community Center, 2000 Hollywood Blvd, York, PA 17403, or to Parkinson Place, 5969 Cattleridge Blvd, Suite 100, Sarasota, Florida 34232.

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