Robert Lewis Hotze

Robert Hotze, 87, of Macedonia, passed away on February 10, 2015 at the Oakland Manor in Oakland, IA. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2015 at the Loess Hills Funeral Home in Carson with Reverend Michael Harvey officiating. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2015 at the funeral home.

Memorials: Carson Presbyterian Church or Macedonia Volunteer Fire Dept.

Robert Lewis Hotze, the youngest of three children of Vivian Linda (Graham) and William K. Hotze, was born on September 23, 1927 on his parents' farm near Carson, Iowa. He grew up near Carson and attended Carson schools, graduating in 1945. Following school, Robert worked as a hired man until joining the United States Army on November 6, 1950 and was stationed overseas in Korea. While in Korea, Robert wrote letters to Gladys Johnson of Red Oak, Iowa. When he was discharged on November 7, 1952, she met him upon his return.

Robert and Gladys Eleanor Johnson were married on March 29, 1954 at the Mission Covenant Church in Red Oak. The couple made their home and began farming on a farm Robert's parents had purchased while he was in the service. Their marriage was blessed with two children, Keith Robert and Karen Marie.

Robert was an active member of the Carson Presbyterian Church, holding many of the church offices. He was a member of the Ruby Smith Post 648 of the American Legion in Macedonia, a member of the Farm Bureau, and served as vice president of the Farm Business Association.

Robert enjoyed traveling with Gladys and walking into town, often seen in his bright orange vest. He enjoyed gardening, especially sharing his produce with the local community.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Eloise Virginia Hotze; and brother-in-law, Richard "Dick" Beyrer.

Robert is survived by his wife of 60 years, Gladys Hotze of Macedonia; son, Keith and Deb Hotze of Macedonia; daughter, Karen Hotze of Carson; three grandsons, John Hotze (Amy Parker and her two daughters, Taylor and Kaitlyn) of Malvern, Steve and Jenna Hotze of Council Bluffs, Craig Hotze (Emily Page) of Carson; great grandson, Michael John Hotze; sister, Loretta Beyrer of Pearland, TX; other relatives; and a host of special friends.