Charles L. Kotovic

Charles L. Kotovic, Jr.

Chuck rounded his last mark, sheet in hand and a gentle wind at his back, sailing into the hands of our Lord, on December 20, 2023, at the age of 85. He graduated from Milwaukee University School and Nichols College. Chuck squeezed all he could out of life. He was a car dealer, dairy farmer, and a yacht broker. Above all, he loved his family and taught his kids to work hard, be adventurous, brave, humble and be honest to themselves.

Chuck was an avid sailor, having competed in 32 Mackinac races, The Bermuda Race and the Southern Circuit. Additionally, he was a passionate iceboater, fly fisherman, gardener, squash player, skier, hunter, pilot, and dog lover. Chuck was an active member of the Pine Lake Yacht Club and Pewaukee Yacht Club, where he spent many hours sailing scows and judging races. He always had a smile on his face and a warm handshake to greet you. He was a faithful friend to many and liked to help anyone and everyone he met.

Chuck is survived by his loving wife and soulmate of 63 amazing years, Shelley Ott Kotovic, loving father to Christa Banholzer (Scot), Charlie Kotovic (Kathryn), Barbie Sprinkman and Annie Huber. He adored being “Gampy” to 14 grands: Abby Flaherty (Sean), Chris Banholzer (Alyssa), Ellie Donahoe (Tucker), Greta Banholzer, Mare Banholzer, Hannah Gilles (Ryan), Will Kotovic (Julie), Drake Sprinkman (Brittany) Annie Dries (Chance), Charlie Sprinkman, Tommy and Louisa Huber, Elizabeth and John Kotovic, and 5 great grands, Jack and Danny Flaherty, Rohan and Cora Sprinkman and Max Banholzer. Chuck is survived by his brother Michael J. Kotovic and daughter-in-law Nancy H. Kotovic he is also survived by his sister-in laws Lynn Kotovic, Barbara Wegmann, Mary Ott and brother-in-law Bob Ott. Chuck is also survived by other relatives and friends.

Chuck is preceded in death by his parents, Charles L. Kotovic Sr. and Marguerite H. Moffatt, his brother Robert H. Kotovic, brothers-in-law Peter F. Wegmann, William V. Ott, and his beloved son Frederick (Rick) N. Kotovic.

In addition to thanking family and friends for their love and support, the family would like to thank the caring and kind people at Heritage Lake Country, Aurora Medical Center Summit and AngelsGrace Hospice. Special thanks to Melissa, Julie, Louise and Susie.

Chuck had a strong faith and will be with us in spirit as we celebrate his life. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Teresa of Calcutta (North Lake) on Friday, February 2, 2024, at 11:00 am. The visitation will be from 9:30 am - 11:00 am. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Chuck's life at a reception following the Mass.

In lieu of flowers, Chuck would have appreciated donations to the Alzheimer's Association, AngelsGrace Hospice or the Milwaukee Rescue Mission.