Howard "Gerry" Gerald Hotz Sr.

He was born January 7, 1941, in Saskatchewan, Canada and relocated to New Jersey during high school. It was there that he met the love of his life and wife of nearly 60 years, Beth. Their family takes comfort in knowing that they are together once again.

Gerry was a proud provider and instilled an incredible work ethic in each of his children. A lifelong auto mechanic, he owned and operated Berkeley Auto Service, in Berkeley Heights, NJ until his retirement in 2015. He and his late wife enjoyed traveling together, whether it be winters in Florida or driving across country in their earlier years, they mapped their road trips between historic landmarks and Cracker Barrels. He experienced many happy years with family at their vacation home on Lake Wallenpaupack where he would boat and fish on the weekends.

Gerry is predeceased by his beloved wife, Elizabeth L. Hotz. He is survived by their five children, Keith Hotz and his partner, Denise Current, of Stillwater, Howard Gerald Hotz, Jr. and his wife, Beverly, of Stillwater, Traci Hapgood and her husband, Steve, of North Carolina, Chad Hotz and his wife, Jennifer, of Fredon, and Rebecca Hotz, and her husband, Steven Vardakis, of Robbinsville; 11 Grandchildren and 7 Great-Grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister Donna Gulliksen, of Connecticut, as well as cherished friends and caregivers at the Chelsea of Sparta.

Cremation Services are in the care of Smith McCracken Funeral Home, Newton. A private family memorial will be held at a future date.

Memorial gifts may be made to Eleventh Hour Rescue (www.ehrdogs.org) P.O. Box 218, Rockaway, NJ 07866.