Robert Kotlarz

Robert "Bob" Kotlarz, a beloved father, grandfather, son, brother, and public servant, passed away on March 6th, 2024, in Detroit. He was born on May 29th, 1958, to Bernard and the late Julia Kotlarz in his hometown of Detroit.
Bob will be remembered as a loving father to Brooke Dooley, Ryan (Caroline), and Lindsay (Daniel) Cuper. His cherished grandchildren, Charlotte and Skyler, brought immense joy into his life. Bob was also a dear brother to Diane (the late Monte) Hackman and Donald (Debra), as well as an uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Bob would drop anything to be there for his children and family. Whether it was for a spur of the moment home repair to and large scheduled renovation, he was always there. He was never once a complainer, dealing with many health complications over the years.
Known for his love of family game nights with his siblings where he always accused the girls of cheating but enjoyed every moment nonetheless, Bob had a passion for all sports. Whether watching or participating in fantasy football leagues, it was something that truly brought him happiness.
His dedication extended beyond leisure activities; he was an exceptional coach for his children's sports teams. His ability to see everyone's potential and bring out their best led to many successful teams under his guidance – even winning championship games with his son in baseball.
One of Bob's most treasured traditions was the yearly camping trip in Empire, Michigan, with extended family. Despite facing health challenges requiring dialysis treatments three times a week during vacation time, he never let it hinder him from enjoying storytelling around the campfire or spending quality time with loved ones.
He also enjoyed occasional visits to casinos where dining out with family members while trying luck against the house provided memorable moments together.
Throughout most of Robert's life, he served others selflessly, starting at Chatham's supermarket before becoming a volunteer firefighter and then an ambulance attendant. He joined the Oakland County Sheriff's Department in 1984, where he dedicated over thirty years to serving various roles within the department, including being an invaluable mentor who showed compassion towards all colleagues regardless of position or rank.
Even after passing away, Robert continued helping others by donating his eyes so that two people could receive the gift of sight through organ donation.
Visitation will be held Sunday, March 10th, 2024, from 2 pm - 8 pm at John N. Santeiu & Son Funeral Home, followed by a funeral mass on Monday, March 11th, 2004, at St. Patrick Catholic Church White Lake. Burial service following at St. John Catholic Cemetery Oceola Twp. Burial will take place, following mass, at St. John Catholic Cemetery, 1954 N. Hacker Rd., Howell.
Instead of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the National Kidney Foundation. www.kidney.org