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BORN
1960
DIED
2010
Jacquelyn Kotarac Memoriam
This obituary was originally published in the Bakersfield Californian.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jacquelyn Kotarac
Sponsored by anonymous.
Teddy Harrison
May 26, 2024
All these years & decades, and I still have questions, painful questions. But also I treasure the sensations of enjoyment & love that made work so pleasant. I shall never forget the example Jackie set of listening, helping & loving. She always told the truth. She was never too tired to do everything indicated at the time. She always finished the job, and then took the time to talk to the family. Jackie was always was pretty nice to nurses as well.
Vonnie Kotarac
September 1, 2017
Love you , miss you everyday ... nothing is the same .... your loving sister vonnie
Loretta Madera
March 6, 2017
Forever missed ~ Never forgotten!
Tracy Kaup
March 2, 2017
Miss you dr kotarac
marci carrillo
September 2, 2015
I have not forgot you - I have not stop fighting for you- I have not oft one day go by that I don't think of you -
Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you - Happy Birthday dear sister - happy birthday too you -
love marci
Gretchen
November 16, 2014
I am late in learning of your passing and so saddened. I know your sister Marcia and my heart grieves for her and her family. She loves you so much Jackie- I knew she was so proud of you. My love to the family
Jo Moore
October 22, 2014
There isn't a day that, at some point, I don't think of you and smile then cry. I smile as I remember what an awesome person/doctor you were and I cry because I miss you as a person/doctor.
Greg Cobb
October 20, 2014
I knew Jackie when we were very small children before she moved away from La Jolla. She was my friend during that time, and she was a loyal, smart, and funny person. I am very sorry to see that this happened. Bless your life Jackie, I remember you.
September 1, 2014
remembering us as kids
Connie Holtschulte
March 7, 2013
Jackie you enter my thoughts often. You were the best Dr I've ever had. I was so comfortable with you and trusted you completely, my husband felt the same (that says a lot for a man). I miss you very much. I saw you just two weeks before you left us and I remember telling you how beautiful you looked that day. I remember saying "you look hot"!! You gave me that sheepish cute little grin you had and thanked me. I don't think I'll ever be able to replace you. I wish you could send me a referral. :). I loved you and truly miss you. Mark and I talk about you often. Rest in peace my friend.
Jim
March 4, 2013
The pain you suffered haunts me. I think of it from time to time since it happened. I am convinced you are in a blessed place and at peace.
November 16, 2011
Many blessings. We will celebrate your life always.
Lady Morrighan
First Priestess
The GODDESS TEMPLE of Orange County
Loretta J. Madera
October 27, 2011
You may have moved on from this world, but you were so remarkable and truly genuine, that you will never be forgotten.
Sending prayers to your dear family and friends, as I know they still feel the empty spot in their hearts.
love always...
Christine Scott
October 26, 2011
Once again, in making an appointment with a new doctor, I realize, along with countless others, what a blessing you were in my life. You were always there when I needed you. May you continue to help people on your next journey. You are so missed. It was such an honor to have known you.
tammie tillmon
May 3, 2011
Today, you came across my mind Dr. Kotarac and I wanted you to know I miss seeing your referrals coming to UCLA. May GOD bless your soul for all you've done.
Devon
February 6, 2011
Thanks for everything, Dr. Jackie. You were that chocolate fudge sundae in the sea of vanilla...
Paula Jones
November 22, 2010
Jackie-Last night I missed you more than ever because I went to ER and of course, they mis-diagnosed me.I wish you were here and I love and miss you very much.Your picture still sits here with moms.I'm glad you two are in heaven together. I'll miss you the most during the holidays. I always saw you about this time so we could celebrate together. My book I dedicated and wrote some on you comes out next week. Wish you were here to read it,but in heaven you know what I said. I just miss your holiday hug. At least I have you and mom as my angels so I'm doing what you told me. Your long-time patient and friend. Love Paula
Loretta
November 22, 2010
She was truly special in countless ways, and I will forever miss her.
My deepest sympathy to her family, friends, colleagues, staff and patients. Words are not enough ~
Elizabeth
November 21, 2010
Still missing you dear lady.
Jessie Cabrera
November 19, 2010
It has been nearly three months since the passing of Dr. Kotarac, and I'm still so saddened by the horrible loss of this wonderful person. I called her Dr. K; she was my doctor for almost ten years. I have to say that I have never had a more caring, intelligent, and knowledgeable doctor. She was also just a very, very nice person. Once Dr. K told me about her great love of horses. She said that when she was younger, she either wanted to be a doctor or to work with horses. She said she was glad she became a doctor. So am I, Dr. K, and I think this is the sentiment of so many of your patients. It was a priviledge to have known her and I will never forget her.
Brian Carrick
November 11, 2010
I never met you, Dr. Jacque, but I knew your sister. I feel bad about your loss, I loved your sister and I know that this has to be terribly hard for the entire family. Rest in peace.
Brian Carrick
November 11, 2010
Dr. Kotarac, I never knew you but I knew your sister, Olivia, and I feel so bad about your loss. I feel bad for the family, I feel bad for Olivia, I know she truly cared for you and all your siblings. I wish there was something I could do or say that would bring you back. Brian Carrick, friend of the family
laura davis
October 15, 2010
Dr Kotorac was an incredibly intelligent woman! She saved my husband's life when we found out he had west nile. she also diagnosed his very painful and advanced acid-reflux. my husband was so against going to the doctor before he had met Dr Kotorac, because he didn't really trust anybody to take care of him. You know how men can be... stubborn, driven, and never wanting to admit they are in pain... but he gained that trust with Dr Kotorac, and he says that was the best doctor, most thorough doctor, he had ever had. We love Dr Kotorac and hope she is peaceful. Not a day goes by that we don't think about her, she truly was a unique lady and will always be missed. Love you, Jackie!!! --Laura Davis
Carol Onsum-Pierce
September 19, 2010
Dear Jackie,
We are sorry that we never found details for your memorial -- but we light this candle to remember you and honor your life and all the gifts that you gave to those who knew you. We miss you so much, and remember you everywhere we go in Bakersfield. Love, Carol and Ron
Darice Kotarac
September 18, 2010
The Kotarac family in Chicago will continue to pray for all of you in California. We have read about Jackie and can see from the amount of people who have written what wonderful qualities she exhibited both as a doctor and as a person. I am sure she is going to be missed by all of you but she is well and happy in a place that is so much better than this earth.
Vanessa Mazer
September 18, 2010
Dr. Kotarac was a beautiful, smart and compassionate lady and she was a fabulous doctor! I will miss her greatly! My prayers are with her wonderful staff and her siblings. May God comfort their hearts. May you rest in peace my friend.
September 16, 2010
Jacque the way I remember her......
September 16, 2010
Lori Toia
September 15, 2010
Dr. Kotarac was my primary physician for over ten years. She was always kind and caring. She explained medical issues in such a way that made you feel comfort in knowing she was going to take care of you. I don't know what I am going to do without her to go to as I have for all these years. God bless you Dr. K. You deserved more from life.
Alice L
September 11, 2010
I never met Ms. Kotarac, I wish I had. After reading the story I faced the truth and I am filing for divorce. If you are open, passionate, honest person and meet the opposite your life becomes a living hell.
Jacquelyn, you will be forever in my thoughts.
Melissa Howard
September 11, 2010
It's been 30 years since I first met Jackie when we worked together as lab assistants at Mercy Hospital. Jackie was out at CSUB back then, fulfilling her pre-med courses and putting in long hours to make it all happen. She was witty, charismatic, hard-working and focused, and seemingly had all the time in the world for a good friend. The past several years I have felt twice-blessed to also call Jackie my doctor. She never forgot how to listen and she was a master diagnostician. Rest in peace, Jackie. You will always hold a special place in my heart.
Kay Schrodt
September 11, 2010
For 14 years Jackie Kotarac was the best doctor I have ever had; she was an excellent diagnostician, and kind friend. We joked about the number of friends I had recommended her to, and the differences between geology (my science) and medicine (hers). I send my deepest condolences to her family and friends, patients, and to her staff including Mary Ann (nurse extraordinaire). I will hold her close to my heart and will miss her outstanding care (and her awesome taste in shoes).
September 10, 2010
Dr. J, you are the best and I don't know what I am going to do without you. You were always right and kept me healthy. You were with me when my Mom and my Brother passed and you gave me peace. May the Great Spirit now give you peace. Rest to the person I still call the best Dr. in the whole wide world. You did indeed have a unique gift.
Lynnda Kidd
September 10, 2010
Dr. K, was my doctor for over 10 years. A woman of great intergrity and character, with a kind and caring spirit. She was beautiful on the inside and this inner beauty spilled out and touched all she came in contact with. She never failed to take the time to sit down and listen carefully to what was said. My heart is heavy with sadness for your loss and my prayers are with you during this time.
Lucia Pires
September 9, 2010
I am so very saddened at the loss of Dr. Jacquelyn Kotarac. You see, if not for her, I would not be here today with my family and so it is with a heavy heart that I write this knowing that her family will miss her but she is with Our Lord, the Father and He will now take care of her. She was a fantastic lady, physician, and human being and her compassion was above and beyond her call of duty and I am thankful that she was the way she was. Again, my heart goes out to her family, may you draw strength in knowing she is with Our Father and is now one of our Guardian Angels.
David & Genie Garcia
September 8, 2010
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Elaine Landis
September 8, 2010
Dr. Kotarac was an amazing woman and a brilliant doctor. She was an advocate for her patients and always left no stone unturned during diagnosis. I will never forget how wonderful she was during a very frightening time in my life. Her honesty and compassion were unmeasurable and are irreplaceable. My thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Kotarac's office staff, especially Mary Ann. The staff have done an amazing job of continuing to care for the multitude of patients. I also thank Dr. Aldoori for stepping in so quickly. I hope all those who are grieving find comfort during this tragic time and know Dr. Kotarac was loved by and saved the lives of so many.
September 8, 2010
Jacquelyn - You will always be in our hearts & prayers. You were an AWESOME doctor, we will miss you!
Cherie, Bryan and Denine
Randy and Pam Cheatwood
September 7, 2010
Dr. K - You were simply an amazing doctor. We always appreciated the excellent care you gave us. You never failed to listen to us and treat us with respect. Thank you for everything. We are greatly saddened at your tragic passing. May God be with your loved ones and friends at this difficult time. You will be missed.
Jan Underwood
September 7, 2010
The loss is tremendously great which our community and the patient/medical community is suffering. Thank you, Dr. Kotarac, for being a light to those who suffered. We will miss you forever and pray you have found the peace in God's light you so richly deserve. My heartfelt condolences to your special brother, Bill, your sisters, and your other family, Mary Ann, Tianna, and staff.
John Savage
September 7, 2010
Dr. K you was one of best Doctors I know you was always patient with me and listen to me. I only knew you for about 2 years then I moved. You saved my life when you had me get a colonoscopy as I had one that would of been cancer in a few month. My heart goes out to your love ones. You will be missed greatly.
Carol Onsum-Pierce
September 7, 2010
To Jackie's family: We mourn with you over the loss of Jackie, as does most of Bakersfield. Just as many of her patients have conveyed, we knew Jackie to be brilliant, genuine and compassionate. We were privileged to call her our friend and we miss her terribly. May God's spirit comfort you in this difficult time.
Marlia Maples
September 6, 2010
Carolyn, Bill, Nancy , Marci & Yvonne,
So many stories.
You know them so well.
Stories of loving, tales of living, years' worth of stories.
Tell them.
Over and over.
Each and every story will help you to celebrate your love of Jackie's wonderful, memorable life.
Remember the good times, and allow the deep wounds of the past heal.
Tim and I were blessed with the opportunity of meeting the Kotarac family 30 years ago. When Edith (mom) came to work for Drs. Jennings & Tivnon as temporary relief for my maternity leave. So many, many memories.
May God Bless and keep you during these hours of need.
Tim & Marlia Maples
Sharon S
September 6, 2010
To the Family and to the Staff of Dr. Kotarac,
Still very difficult to wrap my mind around the loss we have all suffered in the medical community. I always felt as if I were in the best hands possible because I knew she was such a brilliant physician. Please accept my condolences. Family and staff, you are in my prayers for comfort in this time of transition in your lives.
Paula Jones
September 6, 2010
To her family, staff, patients and friends. We have lost a beautiful lady and doctor inside and out. Her intelligence, compassion and love for all of us can not be matched. I was privileged to be her patient and friend from week one of her practice and she taught more of love than anyone I know. Her smile was genuine and deeply felt. I am alive today because of her three times+ and I will honor her dilligence and love and all she taught me and gave to me. I had the utmost respect and love for her as a person and she has left a special space that can never be filled. Only she knows how much she fought to give me life and I will honor her for that. We shared the loss of our mothers at the same time and many happy times as well and that bond can never be broken. May she rest in our Heavenly Father's arms finally at peace and I know she will watch over us with love like she did when she was here on earth. No one will replace my friend and doctor for she was a beautiful lady that was one of a kind.I love you and will remember you always. I will not say goodbye because we will see each other again with God by our side and our mothers, too. To the staff, we loved her together and will miss her terribly. Thank you Jackie for all you gave, especially my life.
Paula Jones
September 6, 2010
To family, staff, patients and friends sorrow can not fully be expressed for after 17 years of being her patient and her friend and sharing so much with her, I knew a loving, intelligent and beautiful lady inside and out that was like family but who also cared deeply about life enough to save my life three times. I hurt but I'm thankful I had the privilege of sharing with her the life she gave to us. May God bless her soul and all those that loved her. She will never be forgotten. Phil. 1:3.
Christine Pultz
September 5, 2010
Dr. Kotarac was such a wonderful doctor. I have been her patient since she opened her practice in 1991. Even after I moved to Visalia 7 years ago I continued to see Dr. Kotarac. I so valued you as my doctor.
May Jesus put his arms around your family, friends, patients and staff and give them comfort.
You are missed but I know the Lord has a special place for you in His Kingdom. Goodbye Dr. Kotarac.
Melanie H.
September 5, 2010
To the Family of Dr. Jackie Kotarac,
Many of us find it so very difficult to put into words the sadness and loss we are feeling. We can't imagine not having the warm, kind hearted, caring doctor, who we all felt was "our friend," not be a part of our lives. Jackie took the utmost professional care of every one of her patients. I saw Jackie the last Friday she was in her office; as I was leaving she called good bye to me, reminding me that I was her "poster child" for a particular health issue that she had recently helped me turn the corner on. What a wonderful way to remember her! Jackie was always in your corner, willing to take the extra time to really find out what was going on in your life, and always there with that extra little encouraging word. What a gift she was to all of her patients, family and friends. This gracious, lovely friend will be sorely missed.
Warm thoughts and prayers go out to her entire family, AND to Mary Ann and the office staff.
September 5, 2010
Please accept my condolences and sadness in the loss of a great Doctor, person and professional! I was lucky to know her the short time I did. I won't be able to fill the hole for a long time. God Bless to her family. Kathi Hickerson
The Black Family
September 5, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Susan McDonald
September 5, 2010
Dr. K, I have no words to describe what a wonderful caring doctor you were. You were the best Dr. I have ever had, or ever encountered. You were genuine. I will truly miss you. My heart goes out to your family and your staff.
John and Nancy Ulman
September 5, 2010
"Jackie, your loss to us was simply devastating. You were one of the most personable, intelligent, skilled physicians we ever met and we were very fortunate to have you as a our physician and friend for over a decade. We had 100% confidence in your advice at all times. We will miss you terribly but know you are in a better place now. Please rest in peace."
Amy Milam
September 5, 2010
I am so sorry for your loss. May God be with all those who are grieving for this wonderful person.
Amy Milam
September 5, 2010
I hope these words from Matt 5: 3-7 bring you comfort: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy."
Carolyn Akers
September 5, 2010
Rest in peace.
Jackie Fabbri
September 5, 2010
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. Dr. Kotarac will be greatly missed. She was a wonderful, compassionate and gifted Doctor. I feel priviledged to have considered her "my" doctor.
Elizabeth Moore
September 5, 2010
Dr. K I have no words for the deep heartfelt grief I feel for the loss of you. You saved my life, quite literally, twice and I would not be here but for your expertise, caring and diagnostic abilities. Please be at peace dear friend you will always be in my heart.
Darleen Borden R.N. (NursDar)
September 5, 2010
My heart continues to ache and words cannot express my gratitude for how you cared for me. Over 14 years I considered you not only my physician but my friend. As a nurse, you let me see the "personal-side of Jackie" when you walked into the room, while showing me your depth of knowledge when I needed you most. I knew the person that was dedicated to the practice of medicine and went beyond those boundaries to heal with an amazing ability to listen first and treat second. As I know you are in a better place, my thoughts are with your family, friends and clients. I thank you for your caring spirit that will be with me always.
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