James “Jim” Joseph Kotter, passed away on Monday October 9, 2023, at his residence surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born on November 3, 1944, in Vincennes to the late Christopher and Leonia (Richardville) Kotter. He took great pride in being an active part of his hometown where he and his wife Mary (Cleveland) were married in May, 1973 and where they raised their family.
Jim was the owner of several used car businesses in Vincennes. Customers were always greeted with a big smile and the car lot was also a place for Jim’s family and friends to congregate to talk cars and sports. A diehard sports fan, Jim loved rooting for his St. Louis Cardinals and Kentucky Wildcats teams. Jim enjoyed gambling, especially playing poker. He took many trips with family and friends to Las Vegas and the Kentucky Derby. Jim was also an avid Vincennes Lincoln Alices fan as he always supported his hometown team. Regional trips to Roberts Stadium back in the days before the move to Class basketball was his favorite time.
Most importantly though, Jim lived life to the fullest. He cherished his grandchildren and loved spending time with them. His Grandkids love their “Pa” and were truly blessed to have him in their lives.
Survivors include his loving wife of 50 years Mary Kotter, better known as St. Mary for putting up with him for that long, his children, Kori Stanton and her husband Bill of Fayetteville, AR, Kolby Kotter and his wife Katie of Vincennes, Toni Drake and her husband Bill of Vincennes; his grandchildren, Emma and Chase Stanton, AJ Kotter and Billy and Katie Drake; sisters, Pat Later of Vincennes and Carolyn Pohl of Vincennes. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Christopher and Livinia Kotter, one sister, three brothers and his beloved dog Jack Buck.
It was Jim’s wishes to be cremated and for no services to be held. Online memories may be sent to Jim’s family and friends at www.goodwinsieversfh.com. Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home is privileged and honored to be entrusted with the care of Jim and his family.
