Bernard “Bernie” Anthony Kotten, 84, of Norwalk passed away peacefully with his family by his side, at his home, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019.
Bernie was born Feb. 20, 1935, in Sleepy Eye, Minn., to Henry and Marie (Wacker) Kotten. Bernie graduated from Wilton High School. Soon after graduation, he found himself at a dance in Cataract, WI, where he met his best friend and future bride, Bonnie Hall. They were united in holy matrimony May 19, 1956, at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Norwalk.
Bernie was a true entrepreneur in every sense of the word. He ran the Roma Pizza company, where he delivered to a vast number of stores, bars and restaurants all over western Wisconsin. The people he met along the way never forgot Bernie. He had an infectious way of leaving a lasting impression on those he met on his travels and endeavors.
Bernie adored his “red-headed girl,” Bonnie. They enjoyed traveling, dancing, having fun and laughing wherever they went. He was also very happy playing the role of grandpa. He cherished his grandchildren and looked forward to their Sunday breakfasts and any time the family was together. His smile and laugh will be missed.
Bernie is survived by his wife, Bonnie, of 63 years; his sons, Bernard J. (Maureen) and Thomas H. (fiancée Mary) Kotten, all of Norwalk; seven grandchildren, Amy Kotten, Elizabeth (Luke) Carpenter, Jacob (Lindsey) Kotten, Meghan (Davis) Kotten, Nicole (Erik) White, Jordan (Samantha) Kotten, and Molly Kotten; 11 great-grandchildren, Jocalyn, Deacan, Zaida, Azaria, Bella, Gabriel, Zachiah, Abigail, Henry, Aurora, and Carolynn; his sisters, Kathleen (Ron) Stoikes and Patricia (Jim) Kowitz; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.
Bernie was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter, Juanita; his beloved daughter, Debbie; his sister, Marilyn VanSlyke; and his brothers, Jim and Cletus Kotten.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, at St. Augustine’s of Hippo Catholic Church, W. 109 County Hwy. U, Norwalk. Father Eric Berns will officiate. Burial will follow in the St. Augustine’s Catholic Cemetery. Family and friends are invited for visitation Friday, Nov. 8, from 4–7 p.m. at St. Augustine’s Church. Visitation also will be held Saturday from 9 a.m. until the time of service at the church. The Torkelson Funeral Home of Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
