GERALD EUGENE KOTTMANN July 29, 1965 – July 11, 2013

Gerald Eugene Kottmann passed away suddenly July 11, 2013 in Las Cruces, N.M., at the age of 47.

Gerald was born in Los Alamos, N.M. on July 29^, 1965.  He is survived by his mother Diana  Kottmann, his father John Kottmann, both of Los Alamos, and sisters Carole Zanone (Jon) of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Lisa McPeek-Brannen (Scott) of Farmington, N.M. 

He is also survived by niece Jessica Cordova, nephews Zachary and Austin Zanone, and Kevin McPeek III. He is also survived by maternal grandmother Doris Schonfeld of Lebanon, Mo., uncle Fred Schonfeld of Lebanon, Mo., and aunt Anna Bower (Joel), of Richmond, Calif. Also surviving is uncle Oscar Kottmann (Glynthia) of Davenport, Iowa, and aunt Faith Somers of Kendallville, Ind., and several cousins. He was preceded in death by maternal grandfather Fred Schonfeld in 2006. Gerald is also survived by his longtime friend, Delphine Tomei, whose dedicated love and care for Gerald throughout his last year was immeasurable.

Gerald spent his childhood in Los Alamos, and graduated from Los Alamos High School in 1983. He studied music education at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, N.M., ultimately working as Production Manager with the NMSU music department. He was a vital asset to the music department, involved in countless productions throughout his career. Music was always Gerald’s passion and he enthusiastically shared that love with all who knew him. Gerald will be remembered for his keen sense of humor, quick wit, and zest for life even when times were tough. He embraced everybody, and treated everyone equally. He was a mentor to many, and a loyal friend to all. He will be missed.

There will be a Celebration of Gerald’s life at 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 17 at the Atkinson Recital Hall, NMSU Music Department on the NMSU Campus. In accordance with Gerald’s wishes, his cremated remains will be interred at Guaje Pines Cemetery in Los Alamos at a later date, to be announced.