Bruce Kotter

Pleasant View — Bruce Lamont Kotter 79, of Pleasant View UT, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, January 25, 2025. Born in Gordon Nebraska on April 26, 1945 to his proud parents, Jack and Helen Kotter, Bruce was known for his intelligence, love of country western songs (especially Willie Nelson), quick wit, helpfulness, adventurous spirit, and infectious laugh. He always remained positive, often saying: “It’s a good day to have a good day”.

Bruce grew up in Blackfoot, ID where he rose before dawn each day to milk the family’s cows. His work ethic allowed him to excel in many areas. He loved tractors and won the county fair’s tractor pull at age 12, beating out many 17- and 18-year-olds, much to the amusement of their girlfriends. Bruce created an artificial kidney for his science fair project, making it all the way to Nationals. He set a long-standing high school record in discus, often practicing by letting his little sister play ‘discus’ where she would eagerly retrieve for him. He continued his education at University of Utah, earning his master’s degree. From there, Bruce went on to a have a long and successful career selling hospital chemistry analyzers across the West.

At the U, on what Bruce describes as “the luckiest day of my life,” he met his wife, Marie, as he held the door for her after chemistry class, wearing his now infamous yellow shorts. They recently celebrated the 57th anniversary of their “perfect marriage” during which they raised 2 sons and traveled the globe together.

Bruce loved the outdoors, especially watching birds, and was a lifelong member of the Audubon Society. Bruce & Marie took many trips to Lake Powell, to the “Cabin in the Pines” in Idaho, and to see their sons in Florida. At home, Bruce was a “project person”, constantly in motion around his home or on his tractor, wrestling with the Rain Birds, or when not working, taking his beloved dog Rosy on walks.

Bruce is survived by his wife Marie, his sons Jeff (Debbie) & Steve (Christa), his “amazing” grandchildren Jack, Emma, & Grace and great-granddaughter, Sage, his sisters Karen Smith and Deborah Kotter Barkley (Byron) his nephew Rob Smith, his Goldendoodle Rosy (his loyal, sweet, companion during his long battle with cancer), Margie Kotter, his generous step mother who predeceased him and many additional family members and friends.

The family wishes to thank Bruce’s care team, including Dr. Carl Gray, Dr. Seth Lewis Lewis and their wonderful staffs, as well as Linda Hendrickson, Dee Braner, & Enhabit Hospice, as well as all of the friends & neighbors who supported him and made his and our lives more enjoyable and hopeful.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Audubon Society, or other charity of your choice.

A celebration of life will be held on May 18th in Salt Lake City for family and friends. Please email brucekotter2025@gmail.com with your contact information for details.