Donald Dwaine Kottwitz, Sr., passed away at Moran Manor on September 26, 2013 at 74 years of age. He was born August 26, 1939 in Ohlman, Illinois to August and Mildred (Evans) Kottwitz. He grew up in Illinois and Missouri. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Don was a retired painting contractor. He enjoyed gardening and spending time with his family. Donald and Darcus met in Iola in 1982 and were married October 8, 1982. Donald was a loving and supportive husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 30 years Darcus, 4 children Marchelle Brown and fiancé Kelly Shaffer, Donald Kottwitz Jr. and wife Donna, Paul Kottwitz and Anita Flach and husband John; 14 grandchildren, Christopher Valencia, Anthony Valencia, William Martinez, Christina Shaffer, Josh Shaffer, Eric Kottwitz, Jennifer Kottwitz, Ryan Kottwitz, Trevin Kottwitz, McKay Kottwitz, Brianna Christensen, Nathan Christensen, Morgan Christensen, and Liam Christensen; one great-granddaughter Peyton Anne Marie Valencia; one brother-in-law Bruce Seybold and wife Barbara; three brothers, Chester, George and Gary; and three sisters, Bertha, Peggy and Loretta. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Milford Kottwitz and one grandson. Friends may call Monday at the Waugh-Yokum & Friskel Chapel in Iola. Graveside services will be 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2013, at the Yates Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions may be made to ACARF. Memorial gifts may be left with the Waugh-Yokum & Friskel Memorial Chapel of Iola, which is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences for the family may be left on this website, www.iolafuneral.com.