Kottwitz, Franklin B. July 12, 1918 - December 19, 2014

Frank B. Kottwitz, 96, died on Friday, December 19, 2014 at his home. He was born on July 12, 1918 in Bland, MO, Gasconade  County. Son of August Ferdinand Kottwitz and Minnie Ida Heidland Kottwitz.  He was the next to youngest of the eight children.  He enlisted in the US Army Air Force on February 6, 1942 where he served as a cook in the infantry. He was honorably discharged on January 13, 1946.  During that time he met and married Sarah C. Miller.   After serving his country they moved to Scott County Kansas to farm with his Uncle Paul Heidland.  Their first six children were born in Western Kansas. He raised cattle, sheep and row cropped while living there. In 1958 the family moved to Osceola, MO where his two youngest daughters were born.  Along with dairy farming, cattle and row crops, he owned and operated Kottwitz Fertilizer, Kottwitz Kountry Klub Restaurant, Kottwitz Farm Equipment, Kottwitz Farm Supply, Osceola Golf Course and Allis Chalmers Implements.   Frank was preceded in death by his parents and all siblings, his former wife Sarah Kottwitz, two grandsons and a great granddaughter.  He is survived by five daughters, Anita Slocum and husband Wilbur of Clinton.  Gladys Smith of Osceola. Judy Hawkins, and husband Bob of Carthage .  Jean Ann Gardner of Osceola, and Joyce Brown and husband Dennis of Osceola. Three sons, Norman Kottwitz, Duke Kottwitz and wife Debbie. Jim Kottwitz and wife Connie all of Osceola. Twenty-four grandchildren, many great grandchildren and one great great grandchild, one sister-in-law, Margaret Kottwitz and many nieces and nephews and many many friends. Frank took great pride in his word and hard work ethic. He was a gentle, loving soul that took time for all his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.  He shared stories while playing cards and dominoes with many friends and family.  He was always young at heart and brought great joy to many.