Richard L. Bottorff Sr.

Richard L. Bottorff, Sr., 77, of Pendleton passed away on December 22, 2023. Born on September 14, 1946 in Sellersburg, IN to the late Robert and Dorothy (Pearson) Bottorff. Richard married the love of his life, Gail (nee Haner), on January 29, 1967.  The two were married 56 years, till his passing. He was a 1964 graduate of Silver Creek High School, before starting college at Indiana University.  He took a break in his studies to serve our country in the United States Marine Corps, spending time in country in Vietnam before being honorably discharged and finishing his college degree. Richard worked for the Illinois Central Railroad for over 30 years, earning promotions throughout his career, finishing as the Director of Marketing.  He leveraged this work experience with the IC by finishing his career working with Central States Enterprises in Florida for over 12 years before retiring in 2016.  After his retirement, he enjoyed travelling with his wife and dear friends Don and Char Long as well as devoting his time to taking care of his wife.

Growing up, he loved attending races with his parents and brother.  Afterwards, he loved playing golf, was an avid reader of history, specifically WWII (both the Pacific and European Theaters) and Vietnam, watching movies, and watching F-1 and Indycar racing. But mostly, he loved spending time with his children and grandchildren; treating them with gifts at Christmas and several trips to Disney World.  He enjoyed spoiling his loved ones as well as supporting various charities like Toys for Tots, the World War II museum, and several others.  He had a sharp intellect and was a strong example of duty, honor, hard work, and moral certitude to his family and everyone he came in contact with.  Richard will be dearly missed by his wife, Gail; children, Richard (Joleen) Bottorff, Jr., Diana (Mick) Seljan, and Matt (Tracy) Bottorff; grandchildren, Harrison (Abby) Bottorff, Hayden Bottorff, Zack Seljan, Noel Seljan, and Ethan Bottorff; and great-grandson, Thielen Richard Bottorff.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert David Bottorff.

The visitation will be from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM Friday, December 29, 2023 at Wilson St. Pierre Funeral Service & Crematory-Lahm Chapel, 211 E. State St., Pendleton, IN 46064. The funeral ceremony will follow at 4:00 PM at the funeral home. Services have been entrusted to Wilson St. Pierre-Lahm Chapel. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution to Toys for Tots.

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