Timothy Hotz

**In Loving Memory of Timothy Lee Hotz**

**March 8, 1948 – May 25, 2025**

Timothy Lee Hotz, 77, of Rushville, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, and unwavering faith. He was born on March 8, 1948, to Howard Melvin (Tim) Hotz and Evelyn Mae Johnson Hotz in Rushville, and he carried the values of his Nebraska roots with him every step of his life.

If you knew Tim, you knew a man who would give you the shirt off his back without a second thought. He lived with an open heart, always putting others first—especially his family. He loved deeply and gave endlessly, and his life was defined by his love for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Being a father and grandfather wasn’t just part of his life—it was his life. He cherished every moment spent with his kids, and his grandbabies were his pride and joy. Each one held a special place in his heart, and he made sure they knew they were loved.

Tim graduated from Rushville High School in 1968 and went on to earn a degree in accounting from Parks Business School in Denver, Colorado. During his time in Denver, he lived with his brother John and sister-in-law Linda, forming a bond that remained strong for the rest of his life.

On August 2, 1968, Tim married Judith Elizabeth Jones. Together, they raised four beautiful children: Timothy Jason, Tonya Dawn, Joshua David, and Amanda Gail. Though their marriage ended in 1985, Tim remained a devoted father every single day. Later, he married Katheryn Pen and continued his journey of love and fatherhood with Mackensie Shay and Burgundy Shizu. He also welcomed Amber Shelby Hotz Stevens into his heart as his own and helped raise Christian Shane Taylor and Tiffany Shannon Taylor with the same love and care. His heart was big enough for everyone, and he made sure all his kids knew they belonged and were valued.

Tim was a man of strong, quiet faith. He adored the Lord Jesus and had no doubt in his salvation. He lived his faith out loud—not by preaching, but by doing. He was gentle, humble, and kind. His love for Jesus showed in the way he treated people—with patience, compassion, and care. If you ever crossed paths with him, you felt seen, heard, and cared for.

From an early age, Tim worked hard, learning to love the land and working it, this continued into adulthood as he farmed for many years. In the early 1980s, he took on a new venture as the owner of J and L Jack and Jill in White Clay, Nebraska. From 1982 to 2001, Tim was not just a business owner—he was the heart of the community. His store was more than just a place to buy groceries. It was a gathering place, a safe place, and a place where everyone was treated like family. He helped so many people quietly, without ever expecting anything in return. Whether someone needed food, a job, or just someone to talk to, Tim was there.

He also served as president of the Rushville High School School Board for many years, advocating fiercely for the kids in the community. He believed in giving young people a strong start, and he did everything he could to support their success.

One of Tim’s loves was often reflecting on life, faith, and the people he held dear. His words carried wisdom and warmth, and those who received a letter or note from him will treasure it always.

His home in Nebraska held a special place in Tim’s heart. It wasn’t just where he lived—it was where he belonged. He loved the land, the people, and the community. His admiration for where he came from ran deep.

Tim is survived by his sister Judy Smith; brothers John (Linda) Hotz and Bill (Nancy) Hotz; his beloved children: Timothy Jason Hotz, Tonya Dawn (Edwin) Reeves, Joshua David Hotz, Amanda Gail Hotz, Mackensie Shay Hotz, Burgundy Shizu Hotz, Amber Shelby Hotz Stevens, Christian Shane (Heather) Taylor, and Tiffany Shannon (Micah) Taylor-Martins; grandchildren: Courtney Jene Trennapohl, Jacoby Allyssa (Kyle) Anderson, Bayleigh Jade Hotz, Jordan Elizabeth (Lane) Andrews, Journey Michelle, Alexandria Gail (Johnny) Toof, Mya Dawn Reeves, Crimsun Leigh Hotz (Justin Eagle), Micah Mari Hotz, Hunter Warren Hotz Stevens, Thomas Carson Stevens Jr., and Kaddi Lynn Stevens, Mathias, Kairi, Emiko Martins, Kristian Big Crow, Alan Wagner, Zane, Trinity, and Temperance Taylor; and his great-grandchildren: Brylyn Andrew Metzger, Willow Grace and Rowan Faith Toof, Kade Austin and Dawson Asher Anderson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Evelyn Mae Hotz, and his brother-in-law, Wiley Smith.

A memorial service to celebrate Tim’s beautiful life will be held on June 16th, 2025, at Extension Community Chapel.

Tim’s life was a living example of love in action. He gave freely, loved deeply, and lived faithfully. He touched the lives of so many, and the ripple effects of his kindness will be felt for generations to come. His family adored him, and so did anyone lucky enough to know him. We will miss his gentle laugh, his quiet wisdom, and his big warm hugs. But most of all, we will miss the way he made us feel—loved, safe, and seen.

Rest easy, Tim. We know you’re home now, in the arms of Jesus.