Kevin Richard Stottle

Kevin Richard Stottle, 63, of Dalton, passed away February 21, 2026 at Berkshire Medical Center surrounded by his family and friends. He was born in Pittsfield on December 28, 1962 to Franklin G. and Kathleen M. Kilmer Stottle. Kevin graduated from Taconic High School in 1982. He proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Navy Reserves from 1984–1992.

Kevin operated his own home improvement business as a general contractor; his motto was "Improving homes is what I do best." Through his work, he met Bob and Lisken Van Pelt Dus, chief instructors at Elm Street Martial Arts. In 2009 they hired Kevin to build out their new space on Elm Street and Kevin began training there (though he had some prior training with another teacher).

Karate taught fitness, concentration, centering, and self-defense, and Keven attended classes twice a week until he became too ill to participate. Kevin's resilience, discipline, humility, and perseverance, developed through years of intense training are emblematic of his commitment to self-improvement and "never give up" attitude. These strengths carried Kevin through his health crises.

Lisken said, "Throughout the years of his training, he attended class regularly. He is well-loved by all in our dojo family, and is known for his strength and diligence. He also participated in many dojo activities and events, including as a member of the test board for various promotional examinations. His promotion to Shodan (1st degree black belt) was in May 2011. His most recent promotion was to the rank of Godan (5th degree black belt) in December 2022."

She also noted that she'd like Kevin's family to know "… that he was also a dedicated friend to one of our other students, who had to retire from training because of dementia some years ago and who passed away last year. Kevin continued to visit him in his nursing home regularly right up until the end."

Kevin was predeceased by baby daughter Morgan Alicia Stottle (March 1996), his mother Kathleen Marie Kilmer (August 2024) and father, Franklin George (June 2023). He is survived by his former wife, Patti Stottle, who is the mother of Morgan and surviving son Cameron of Dalton; brothers: Timothy of FL, Mark (Marge) of FL, Michael of VA, and David of Pittsfield. He also leaves behind his cherished friends and relatives.

FUNERAL NOTICE: Calling hours at Dery Funeral Home will be Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 5-7PM. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, February 27, 2026 at 11 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Burial will follow in the St. Joseph's Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made payable to Sacred Heart Catholic Church or Saint Agnes Parish of Dalton and mailed to the funeral home at 54 Bradford St., Pittsfield, MA.