Cover photo for Dr. Joe W. Kotrlik's Obituary
Dr. Joe W. Kotrlik Profile Photo

Dr. Joe W. Kotrlik

May 17, 1948 — March 29, 2024

Weatherford

Joe Wayne Kotrlik - A Life Well Lived


Joe Kotrlik, a pillar of his family and a passionate educator, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2024, at his home in Weatherford, Texas, surrounded by loved ones. He was 75 years old.


Born on May 17, 1948, in Ballinger, Texas, Joe was one of ten children raised by Edward Charles and Louise Elizabeth (Haechten) Kotrlik. He lived a full life, fueled by seemingly boundless energy and a deep love for family, travel, good friends and good food.


As a lifelong Catholic, Joe found peace in his Faith.


Devoted Husband, Father, and Grandfather


Joe's greatest joy came from his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 52 years, Judy Kotrlik, and their two sons: Tim, with his wife Emily and their children Emmett, Jamie, and Elise; and Chris, with his wife Carissa and their children Alex and Claire.


Joe cherished his grandchildren and embraced every opportunity to spend time with them.


A Legacy of Education, Service and Community 


Joe’s dedication to education spanned his entire life. 


He was a proud graduate of Tarleton State University (B.S. AgEd, 1971) and Texas A&M University (Ph.D. Human Resources, 1978). His professional career flourished at Louisiana State University (1978-2013), where he was a respected and admired professor, holding a tenured position until his retirement. Joe was awarded the esteemed title of Professor Emeritus in recognition of his distinguished career and service.


Beyond academia, Joe actively served his community as a member of the Lions Club in Rosenberg, Baton Rouge and Weatherford.


Preceded in Death and Survived By


Joe was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Ricky, Robert, Eddie, and Kenny Kotrlik, and brother-in-law Harold McKnight. 


He is survived by his wife Judy, sons Tim and Chris with their families, siblings John and his wife Nancy, Carolyn McKnight, Dan and his wife Jackie, Sharon, Alice and her husband Britton Goldberg, and sister-in-law Barbara Kotrlik, along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins, and dear friends.


Funeral Arrangements


Judy, Tim and Chris would like to express their sincere gratitude for the compassionate care and support provided by innumerable health professionals, extended family members and friends.


A prayer service officiated by Father Emmet O’Hara will be held at 10:00AM on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at St. Stephen Catholic Chapel (211 South Main St, Weatherford). A reception will follow at Salt Seafood and Steakhouse (209 E Church St, Weatherford).


A private interment will be held at a later date at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Rowena, Texas.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Dr. Joe W. Kotrlik, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Prayer Service

Saturday, April 6, 2024

10:00 - 11:00 am (Central time)

Add to Calendar

*Standard text messaging rates apply.

Videos

Guestbook

Visits: 361

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors