James and 131 were two sides of the same coin. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. He was a great role model and friend to me and countless others from the neighborhood. His guidance and big brother like wisdom will be missed. He was a big part of us growing up. Always provided positive encouragement and was just a great person to enjoy time with.

I will always remember how kind and respectful you were when you would come over for wrestling events.  You took time to talk and hang out with my kids.  My Jake loved you so so much.  You will be very missed by all of us.  I pray you are at peace and I will never forget you.

James truly loved sports. He taught many in the younger generation how to play basketball, encouraged us to stay away from drugs, and was always a positive role model both on and off the court. He will truly be missed. I remember so many days when I would come to 131, and he would be the first person there—that place was truly his favorite.

James was the epitome of passion. He lived with a ball in hand, always ready to go, always ready to compete, and always ready to show up on the courts of 131. For those of us who shared that space with him, the courts were more than just a place to play, they were a constant, a community, and James was at the heart of it.

He brought energy, authenticity, and a genuine love for the game that made everyone feel welcome. Whether it was a quick run, a long night of games, or just being around familiar faces, James had a way of making those moments matter. He connected us, pushed us, and reminded us why we kept coming back.

I am deeply grateful for the runs, the laughs, the competition, and the memories I shared with him. James was a truly great human being. This loss cuts deep for all of us who knew him and shared the court with him. Rest in eternal peace my brother.

I grew up playing basketball with James since I was in the first grade, he’s seen me grow at every level from life & from the court. I often run into James no matter where I am & recently saw him and shared a few laughs like always. May an army of angels protect James and may he Hoop in peace. ❤️

Thank you for always talking hockey with me when you came over 💙🤍  I hope you are in peace now 🤍🤍🤍🤍

I’m heartbroken. Whenever I ran into James, although less frequently since I moved away, we’d reminisce about growing up together and of course balling at PS 131.
I was just speaking to my parents about James a few days ago, and my dad mentioned running into him. 
He was a great guy and an amazing friend. So many memories we had with James growing up with Lawrence, Trevor and I. Unfortunately I’m out of the country and cannot attend his memorial. My prayers are with his Family and many friends. We will miss him so much!

OBITUARIO

James John Kotz

19 diciembre, 1980 – 15 diciembre, 2025

Frederick Funeral Home

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