Linda Sue Lotze

Beloved wife, mom, grandmother, friend, Linda Sue Lotze, went to be with her Lord and Savior on December 5, 2025 at 10:53 pm in the evening. She was surrounded by family on this day and passed peacefully in her sleep in the presence of her husband of over 50 years, Philip, and her youngest son, David. Linda is survived by husband, Philip A. Lotze, Children, Christelle, Paul, Erika, David, Grandchildren Trevor, Jerod, Jacob, Brandon, Katarina, Justin, Analee, Skyler, Bryce, Tehillah, Aaron and her older sister, Carol and baby brother Ed.

Linda was born June 10, 1950 in Alhambra, CA to her parents Ed and Eleanor Kirbus who were married over 50 years before their passing. Linda grew up in the city of Long Beach, California and attended Milikan High School, graduating class of 1968 as a straight A student taking college prep classes. Her dad was a WWII Army Veteran who loved doing magic tricks for his grandchildren. Her mom crocheted and knitted like a pro.

Linda and Phil met through a mutual friend at a National Medical Enterprises hospital in Long Beach, California. They later had their first child Christelle, moving to San Diego, CA shortly thereafter where they lived in the same house for nearly 50 years and where they raised all four children (and two boxer dogs Heidi & Mindi). Surrounded by wonderful neighbors, the children were able to maintain lifelong friendships due to this gift of stability.

It was at Melodyland Church, January of 1975, where she gave her life to Christ. This would lead to her part in many women’s groups, Bible studies, and even helping with youth group retreats during our Mission Valley Nazarene days.

Her children fondly remember numerous family camping trips to the beach and mountains. They also recall several souvenir frogs brought home from camping trips and one frog named Gorf who lived 14yrs. Many ribbits and hops were heard late into the nights. After a long day playing at the beach or catching tadpoles in ponds, it was mom who took all four young kids back to get cleaned up and ready for dinner with a bonfire after.

In her later years, Linda’s grandchildren have beautiful memories watching baseball and movies with her. Several attribute their love of film, acting and creating to these special times they shared. Linda was also an artist! Several of her grandchildren share in her creativity. We remember her drawing, ceramics, crocheting, and decorating. Perhaps a favorite pastime was her decorating for Christmas. Eventually, she allowed Christmas to stay in our home throughout the year.

Linda’s legacy of love and kindness lives on through her family and all who knew her.