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David Bottcher Obituary
Retired U.S. Army Colonel David William Bottcher, 51, of Gulf Breeze, Florida, passed away Tuesday, February 7, 2017, at Midtown Medical Center in Columbus, Georgia, after a brief illness.
The family will welcome guests for visitation on Thursday, February 16, 2017 from 17:00 until 20:00 in Edgewood Hall of Striffler-Hamby, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia. COL Bottcher's life will be celebrated, with full military honors, on Friday, February 17, 2017, 13:00 at Main Post Chapel, Fort Benning, Georgia. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.
COL Bottcher was born on July 18, 1965, in Elmira, New York to parents James F. Bottcher, Jr. and Georgia Crissy. He graduated from Elmira Free Academy and, having excelled in the sport of wrestling from a young age, earned many accolades as a heavyweight during his college years, including NYS Heavyweight Champ, Eastern Heavyweight Champ and NCAA Qualifier. He wrestled for both Drexel University and The United States Military Academy at West Point. Graduating from West Point in 1990, he was commissioned as an Infantry second lieutenant in the United States Army, marking the start of an Army career that would span over two and a half decades.
During his distinguished career, COL Bottcher, served in command and staff positions leading Soldiers at every level. His assignments took both him and his family to numerous locations: Ft Drum, NY; Dongducheon, South Korea; Ft Irwin, CA; Ft Benning, GA; Ft Leavenworth, KS; Ft Campbell, KY; Colorado Springs, CO; and Stuttgart, Germany.
COL Bottcher was a proven combat leader who led Soldiers in hostile fire zones such as: Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Libya. Equally as important, COL Bottcher dedicated many years of his career to the training and education of Soldiers. His dedication to his profession and leadership were always on display during multiple assignments ranging from his days as an Observer Controller at the National Training Center, to command of the 1-11th Infantry Battalion, where he was responsible for the initial entry training of over 7,200 newly commissioned lieutenants. His influence and positive impact are still felt today.
For his final assignment, COL Bottcher and his family moved to Stuttgart, Germany, where he was selected to lead US Africa Command's efforts to plan, coordinate and implement the US-led, effort to train the Libyan Army. He served for two years as the AFRICOM J35, Future Operations/Counterterrorism Division Chief, before retiring in late 2016, with 26 years of faithful service to the nation.
COL Bottcher was passionate about serving his country and caring for Soldiers and their families, and was deeply loved and respected by all who knew him. He enjoyed many outdoor sports including bow hunting, boating, snow skiing and golf, but especially loved spending time with his family and friends and riding his Harley.
During his time in Germany David came to know Jesus Christ as his Savior. In a recent text he sent to his wife, Donna, he stated that "We are all bad/rotten until we commit our lives to the Lord and accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior. I love you, but even more so, I love the Lord. I am excited to see what He has in store for us. One thing that will be constant is you by my side and the Lord in my heart."
Along with his parents, those left to cherish COL Bottcher's memory are: his loving wife, Donna (Austin) Bottcher, and his adoring daughter, Sydney Bottcher, both of Gulf Breeze, FL; brothers, Jim Bottcher and Alex Bottcher, of Elmira, NY; sisters, Kathryn (Brian) Matthews of Tucson, AZ and Meg (Steve) McManus of Baltimore, MD; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members, as well as a multitude of friends and colleagues.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project or The National Infantry Foundation. Those wishing to sign the online guest book may do so at www.shcolumbus.com.
Express your condolences in our guestbook at pnj.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Bottcher
Sponsored by Striffler-Hamby Mortuary.
June 4, 2019
So sad my friend. Always wondered how you lived your life. Just tried to catch-up and I was too late. I'll always remember the times at wrestling practice, yup I was 126 lbs and you were heavy weight, only competition I had. I ran into Andy Scwhab your brother's rival and he sure remembered him. We had fun together Skiing at Greak Peak, Virgil NY. You introduced me to your cousin Stephanie who was attending Alfred University (way out of my league) but you thought I could pull it off. I'm pleased to see that you had a long career with the military, thank you for your service!!! I'll always remember you for the great friend that you were. God Bless Jamie Gatch, Trumansburg, NY
Jack Childs
August 15, 2017
Dave was a true MAN in all ways. I recruited Dave out of HS for my Drexel University Wrestling Team. Dave told me when he entered that the only way he would leave is if he was accepted by the USMA at West Point. True to his word, when he was accepted, he came to me and told me just that. I watched him become an EIWA Champion and was never more proud when he came up to me at the NCAA's and said 'Thanks Coach'. We spoke on the phone just over a year ago, and he told me of his outstanding military career. Dave, you will be missed!!
Shawn Underwood
April 25, 2017
COL Bottcher was also my SGL at FBGA in 2000. I am saddened to hear of his passing. Monica and I send our sincere thoughts and prayers during this time to the family. What a man, warrior and mentor.
B. McCreight
April 25, 2017
Dave was my SGL at FBGA in 2000, great instructor, inspiring and dedicated to his students!
Tony Benitez
April 10, 2017
Truly saddened to hear the news of Dave's passing. Christy and I send our deepest condolences to the entire family. Dave was a warrior in every sense of the word and a true friend to all who knew him. I'm so glad that I got to spend the time with him that I did. Donna, we will hold you and the family in our thoughts and prayers.
Jack O'Neil
March 12, 2017
I knew Dave from West Point. I was a year younger and thought of him as a role model, and the kind of guy I wanted to become. I remember many great times with him. It saddens my heart knowing the world is without him, but I am comforted and excited to know that he is a Christian and has a place in heaven! See you soon my brother!
Tim Dukeman
February 24, 2017
Our condolences and prayers for the Bottcher families. RIP our beloved classmate....The Proud and Mighty.
Gerald Kinloch
February 22, 2017
Raider 65 West. Col Bottcher was a gentle giant. I was very saddened to here of his passing. I remember when I visited out west at Camp Stone, Afghanistan, he always greeted me with open arms. He made Camp Stone my home away from Camp Nathan Smith Kandahar. We are very thankful for your love of our Soldiers in the brigade, and especially the youngsters our west. We will miss you my friend the gentle giant. God bless you, your, family, and friends.
To the Bottcher Family, I was honored serve with this great American. May peace be with you during these difficult times. On behalf of all Raiders, please rest in peace.
Love, Raider 7.
February 19, 2017
Thank you for your loving service to "Our County" Your love for Jesus & your family will lead us all forward and we need this mentality more than ever! " Thank You David William Bottcher", you are now living in the land of milk and honey, you are home. I never met you, but somehow feel like I have. Thank you and God bless your loving family
February 19, 2017
Donna and Sidney, There really are no words to describe how sorry we are for your loss. We will continue to keep you in our hearts and prayers. We will always remember the time we got to spend with you during our time in Germany. Sorry we were unable to attend the services in Georgia, we will make every attempt to be with you at Arlington. Eric & Lisa DeVault
Legionnaires American Legion
February 18, 2017
""Duty, Honor, Country.". Thank You for your service, Sir. May God be with the family during this difficult time.
Norma Klingler
February 18, 2017
Dear Donna, Sydney and David's family and their friends,
At a time like this, it is hard to put into words the feelings as they are, but we trust you know that you will understand.
We met in Fort Benning, GA both our families living in the Iron Triangle, you guys right behind us and from the moment we moved in, you welcomed us and made us feel like we were family. For Norma especially it was a very special bond of blessing as we had just left all our grown children in MN and in TX, the hardest thing she had to do, ever! Your love, kindness and sincerity made us instant friends. We watched each other's pets and house when we traveled, and we always felt safe and secure in your care and friendship. Then, Richard was sent to Korea on an unaccompanied tour for one year. It was hard to be alone, but having Dave, Donna and Syd so close, made a big difference to Norma. She never felt alone or left out. One time Norma bought a mattress for a new bed and when she asked David to help, she was amazed that he picked up this queen-sized mattress with one hand and brought it upstairs as if it was cardboard!! David, we love you and look forward to seeing you in heaven someday.. We know the Lord prepared a very special place and many crowns for you up in heaven..Sweet dream dear friend, we miss you and we look fiward to seeing you again!
Donna and Sydney, you hold also a very special place in our hearts, please know that our home in Panama is your home too. Please come and stay, any time. There will always be a room waiting for you. We love you. Hold on to our God, your husband and father is enjoying the greatest view up there in the presence of the Most High God. Rejoice!!
February 18, 2017
So very sorry to hear of David's unexpected passing, and want you to know our thoughts and prayers are with you and all the family in these difficult days. May your faith in our risen Lord and Savior sustain you as you grieve David's loss. And may you comfort each other by recalling happy memories and the significant service he so capably gave our country. His legacy is positive but that also means he will be greatly missed. Bob and Susan Edmunds, Etowah, North Carolina
Jon & Mary Ring
February 18, 2017
Our deepest condolences for you both. Our hearts were breaking along with you when we heard of Dave's passing. Thinking of you always in the coming days and thankful for all the Love coming your way. Know that you will be continue to be Loved by all.
February 18, 2017
DEAR DONNA,SYDNEY, JIM, GEORGIA AND ALL THE SIBLINGS, WE ARE SO SADDENED TO LEARN OF HIS UNTIMELY DEATH. HE HAS BEEN PART OF OUR FAMILY EVER SINCE HE WAS A CLASSMATE WITH OUR DAUGHTER, LISA IN ELMIRA, TAKING CARE OF ALEX AFTER HE WAS ADOPTED AND AFTER PATTY'S DEATH, GOING ON CURSILLO WITH GEORGIA, ETC. I'M SO GLAD HE 'FOUND THE LORD' AND IS NOW IN HIS LOVING EMBRACE. THERESA AND JOSEPH BUCCI
Wyley Murray
February 17, 2017
I never Knew Col. David Botcher, but reading the Pensacola News Jornal his Obituary caught my attention for whatever unknown reason ! Being A Vetran myself, of the Vietnam Nam War , as was my father , and brother , ( we were all AirForce and enlisted men and all came home safely . I am 68 and it caught my eye that he was so young in early 50's . I watched the Amazing Video of him after reading his obituary , that noted his love of this country , his wife , daughter and his men , and for Jesus Christ ! I just wanted to say Thank You to Co. David Bottcher for your service to this country , and thank you to the family for sharing this amazing video of him with the public , via the PNJ and his obituary ! It truly touched me , as I wept for your loss . My prayer I is with your family's during this loss , and may we all meet in internity ! One if the many Joy's of knowing Christ , and how He connects us in ways we don't understand , nor have to God Bless !!
Elaine Ferrari
February 17, 2017
To Georgia and family,
My sincere condolences and prayers for your sudden loss of David. I have fond memories of news about your children, Georgia. May you console each other and keep him in your hearts always.
Elaine Ferrari
Lt Col Michael H. Sarra
February 17, 2017
Please accept our heartfelt sympathy for the loss of COl Bottcher. We are sorry for your great loss. May the God who "binds up the broken-hearted" and " comforts all who mourn" sustain your family during this difficult time. Isaiah 61: 1,2. Hand salute to a distinguished leader and senior Army Officer that has been called from the ranks.
Kenny Ham
February 17, 2017
To Donna, Sydney and the Bottcher family. I send my sincere condolences. I was very sad to hear of David's passing. I have bragged on David a number of times for his accomplishments both in sports and his military career. I remember as kids, he would be up to our farm and we'd ride dike bikes around and the picnics when our families gathered at Benson reunions. I'm proud to have served in the same branch of service (21 yrs US Army) that guards America's way of life and values. All the way Sir! Airborne!
John Costello
February 17, 2017
My condolences and prayers to the Bottcher families. Very sad news. RIP.
Mark McRay
February 17, 2017
I will remember our battalion champion pugil stick competition forever. You smashed me and won the battle, I just hope you are up there winning more battles, we are counting on you.
Melissa Palmer
February 16, 2017
David and the Bottcher family were a big part of my childhood that I will always treasure. Even now as the tears roll down my cheeks I am smiling at the wonderful memories I have. My love, thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.
Tracy Roou
February 16, 2017
An oak has fallen. Our deepest sympathies to Donna and the whole family. He will never be forgotten.
February 16, 2017
LTC Bottcher was my CO for the NET Team. Great man and took care of his team. He will be missed greatly! My condolences go out to the family.
Rest in peace Sir!!
Edgar Bulala
Colonel Adrian Bogart
February 16, 2017
I am deeply sadden by Dave's loss and send my deepest regards to the Bottcher family. I served with Dave in Stuttgart when I was at SOCAFRICA. I marveled at his leadership. His ability to work very complex problems to resolution. But more importantly, I enjoyed his fairness and dedication. An honor to have served with Dave. Very respectfully, Colonel Adrian Bogart
February 15, 2017
Great to meet you all in Stuttgart last year at the Bible Church. I was shocked at David's sudden death but thankful he was prepared to meet the Lord. We are praying for God's grace to all the family. Chaplain (COL) Ret Ron Benzing
Judy Manzo
February 15, 2017
My heart sank when I read of David's passing. I have never personally had the privilege of meeting him, although his brother Jim is a very close friend. Jim has always spoken so highly and with such great pride of David, I almost felt like I knew him. My thoughts, prayers, condolences and my love go out to Jim and his entire family.
Glenn Johnson
February 15, 2017
David was my first commander in the Army. I served under him in 1996 in Korea. He was a great Commander. He will be missed.
-LTC (Ret) Glenn Johnson
David Saur
February 15, 2017
Above the rest, sir!
Darcy & Phil Hopko
February 15, 2017
David was a strong leader even in elementary school. I am so happy that I had the privilege of teaching him as a young child. We appreciate his service to the country and he will be missed greatly. Our family sends their prayers and condolences to his family and loved ones.
Joan Barneski
February 15, 2017
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Bob and Kathy Lawrence
February 15, 2017
Though we didn't know David personally, he is the brother of our nephew's wife Meg. What we do know is he gave half of the years of his life in service of his country. May he already be experiencing those words : "Well done my good and faithful servant...enter into the joy of your Master" (Mt 25:21). It is with deepest sympathy we offer our prayers and comfort to his dear family members.
Louis York
February 14, 2017
Sir, you will be greatly missed. An awesome commander and leader. Forever a 29th Infantry 'OUTRIDER'!
Beth Ramsey
February 14, 2017
Donna and Sydney, I have thought of you guys many times over the last few days. Reading the obituary and learning that he recently came to know the Lord as his savior makes me so happy. I know that you would rather he was here with you guys, but take comfort in that you will be with him again one day! I am thankful to have known him.
Mike and Marsha Weaver
February 14, 2017
What a wonderful life you shared with all of us. In the midst of sadness what joy to know David has heard his Savior say, Well done good and faithful servant!
Rebecca and Kevin Pinson
February 14, 2017
My heart aches for Donna and Sydney. There are no words. May God wrap his loving arms around those who grieve for David's passing and comfort them during this incredibly difficult time.
Faye McDonald
February 14, 2017
Donna and Sydney going through this sad time with you and so grateful that your family and David's were with you all the way. Our love for you all will never fade as so many who loved David will never fade.
Susan Cherones
February 14, 2017
Precious Donna, my heart is with you, Sydney, and David's many beloved friends, and family members. He filled his life with service and Love. There is no greater legacy. May God grant you all Peace, Comfort and many blessings.
Ricky Watson
February 14, 2017
We cannot begin to express how much David meant to us as a family. From meeting you at Fort Campbell and all the things involved in that year, to him swearing in John as a new Lieutenant, and enjoying your adventures in Germany. He had a great presence in our lives. We know how much you and Sydney love him and will miss him. We will miss him as well. David was a great man, and we were proud to know him. With much love,
Lisa and Ricky Watson
Chauncy Nash
February 13, 2017
Words cannot describe the sorrow felt. Have joy in knowing that David's impact was felt the world around and all that he encountered were changed for the better. He will be missed, but is forever loved.
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