Stephen Frederick Kotch

May 30, 1943 – March 28, 2017

Steve Kotch Jr. was many things, to many people:

3rd generation owner/operator of various transportation businesses, which offered various destinations like ski resorts, concerts, private charters, tours to Disneyland, and much more.

Cardinal Coach
Northern Bus Lines
Canada West Transportation
Exotic International Travel and Tours
Kotch’s Alberta Wildrose Charter Coaches
Kotch’s Exotic International Travel and Tours

“The Spirit Bear” motorcoach (seen above)

Alderman – City of Lethbridge, Alberta Canada (1969-1974)
Director of The Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Association (1969)
Owner/operator of High Chaparral Western Clothing Store
Creator and manager of the Annual Christmas Lights Tours throughout Lethbridge (1962-2016)
Designed and patented the worlds first ultra-light double-deck motorcoach.
Son of Frederick Kotch Sr. and Florence Kotch, Steve is survived by Faye Kuehn (sister), Katherine Derosso (daughter), Fred Kotch Jr. (son), and Carolyn Williams (daughter), Derek Kotch (grandson), Nicholas Kotch (great grandson), Archie Williams (grandson), and Christiana Williams (granddaughter).

Being a personal confidant and life counselor to many, Steve was an intelligent, kind hearted gentleman, who desired the very best for everyone that he knew. He had the positive attitude, that persistence and good intentions will eventually lead to success, and he practiced those traits every day of his life. He was extremely knowledgeable about his trade, and found it to be rewarding when given the opportunity to teach others new skill sets.

Being a very active member of the community in Lethbridge all of his life, he founded and managed the Annual Christmas Lights Tour for 54 years, and found it to be a high personal reward, knowing that he was humbly participating in something greater than himself. Besides being an inventive entrepreneur, statesman, owner/operator in the transportation industry, he was a loving father, with incredible advice as a life-coach. Like most parents, his concern and pride for his children was unwavering, and he always sought to encourage his family to be strong and kind. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends alike.

During the past couple of months, Steve was being cared for by the wonderful medical personnel at Chinook Regional Hospital. One can only wonder if any of them fully realize how valuable they truly are, and how their care-giving skills are perceived by those in need. If Steve could have ever theoretically rewarded everyone who took such great care of him during his visit, I am sure that he would have sent them all to Disneyland, and bought them an ice-cream cone … and a Mickeymouse hat. His family can’t express enough gratitude for their persistence and integrity to provide him with such excellent care. If you are reading this, and feel the need to communicate your words of thanks, Steve’s family highly encourages you to give praise to the those unsung heroes at Patient.Feedback@albertahealthservices.ca

R.I.P. Paw-Bear

At Steve’s request, no formal funeral service will be held.

Cremation entrusted to Cornerstone Funeral Home.

 

To send a condolence, please visit www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

• Date : 2017-03-30