Condolences for
John D. “Jack” Kottler

So shocked and saddened to hear of Jack's passing. Although we were only "neighbors", when he was out taking his daily walk he always had time to stop and have a little chat. I will miss seeing him. So sorry for your profound loss.

I want everyone to know how much I value, respect, admire and genuinely love my Dad. He was my tutor. He taught me so many practical and life lessons. He was my example. He showed me how to show respect, how to be chivalrous, and how to be a Dad. He is my hero. If I am only half the man my father is, I will still be twice the man.

My mantra has been, “Don’t be one OF a million, be one IN a million.” My Dad was one in a million. I love him and always will. Thank you Jack, for everything you have done for me in my life, and all the ways you will continue to influence me for the rest of my life. I love you dearly.

Though I lived and worked at the Lakehurst NAS from 1974 until 1978, I did not formally move into the NYC Metro area as a working civilian pilot until April 1981. The company I worked for on Long Island had purchased a helicopter exactly identical to the one J&J purchased and it was completed by the same company that was finishing their aircraft. Jack was one of the first people in the area to welcome me to the area and became an instant friend. He was like an older brother in the truest sense of the word by offering not only friendship, but advise on how to survive the local area and the demands of working in NYC. As we bumped into each other over the years, I saw him as a stabilizing force for good and a mentor as well.

Upon learning of his passing yesterday, my thoughts turn to his family and realize that there will be one more spirit on the "other side" of the veil that will be there to welcome me when it is my turn to cross the river. God Bless you Jack for being a friend and once again, getting things ready for me for a future time.