John A. Hotz

John A. Hotz, 79, of Fremont, OH passed away at his home surrounded by family. He was born on December 13, 1946 in Fremont, OH to Carl and Dolores (Seward) Hotz. John was a 1965 graduate of St. Joseph Catholic High School and then went on to serve in the US Army as a member of the 101st Airborne from 1965 to 1968 and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Parachutist Badge with the Oak Leaf Cluster, Combat Action Badge and Army Commendation Medal.

John married Sharon Braun on May 10, 1969, in Massillon, OH. He worked as a truck driver for many years before retiring in 2010. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Fremont Eagles, and the VFW. John was an avid fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes, Cleveland Browns, Guardians, and Cavaliers, but his greatest passion was the Massillon Tigers. He enjoyed beach vacations and spending time with his family. His grandchildren will fondly remember his favorite saying, “Until I see you the next time,” and their response, “It will be the best time.”

John is survived by his wife of fifty-seven years, Sharon Hotz, Fremont OH; children, John (Leta) Hotz, Fremont OH, Stacy (Jeremy) Riggs, Lyons OH, Bradley (Amanda) Hotz, Littleton CO; sisters, Judy Mangiola, Tiffin OH, Joan (Charles) Engler, Fremont, OH; grandchildren, Jacob Riggs, Jessica Riggs, Addison Hotz, Antwone Spencer, Aaron Spencer, Jaylen Spencer and Ariana Spencer.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Frank Mangiola.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday, October 22, 2026 at Noon at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 550 Smith Rd, Fremont, OH 43420.

Memorials can be made in his honor to the Donor’s choice.