Gertrude Anna Hottinger

Gertrude Anna Hottinger, age 96, of Eustis, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Born in Nürnberg, Germany, to the late Carl and Anna Merz, Gertrude grew up in Germany before meeting her husband, Robert, who served in the US Army in Germany. She moved to the United States in 1947 when they got married and moved to Eustis in 1955 from Bucyrus, Ohio. Throughout her career, she worked as an insurance agent and partner at Holstein, Church & Pickering Agency, Eustis until her retirement. Gertrude's faith was an important part of her life, and she was a devoted member of Faith Lutheran Church, Eustis. Gertrude had many passions, including sewing and playing cards with her friends, which brought her much joy. She also authored the book, "My Amazing Journey," detailing the story of her life. Gertrude leaves behind a loving family, including her two sons, Raymond P. (Christy) Hottinger of Eustis, FL, and Steven C. (Penny) Hottinger of Sun Prairie, WI; her nephew, Franklin Traber of Switzerland; her nieces, Claudia Thomas, Virginia Traber, and Heidi Kunz, all of Switzerland; her sister-in-law, Gerry Merz of Marion, OH; as well as two grandchildren, Brad and Matthew. A memorial service will be held at Harden/Pauli Funeral Home, on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 9:30 AM. Following the service, she will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband, Robert Hottinger, at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Arrangements have been entrusted to Harden/Pauli Funeral Home in Eustis, Florida.