Milbert "Mel" E. Hottman

Milbert Eugene Hottman, age 96, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 4, 2026. Mel was born on a farm between Leola and Eureka, South Dakota on November 4, 1929 to John and Barbara Wolf Hottman. He was the youngest of seven children, all of them preceded him in death.

Mel graduated from Leola High School in 1947 and went to work at the Red Owl in Aberdeen So Dak while managing The Meat Department at Webster. In 1950, he joined the National Guard and became a member of the Heavy Tank Company of the 196th Regimental Combat Team. With the beginning of the Korean War in September, the 196th was called to active duty and was sent to Camp Carson Colorado for combat training. In May of 1951 the 196th was sent to Alaska to defend the territory of Alaska. Mel was discharged in August 1952 after two years.

Mel returned to Aberdeen and went to work with Armour Foods. He met the love his life, Delores Braun and were married in September of 1953. They were blessed with four children, Diane (Barry) Smith, Donna (Paul) Zastera, Mark (Lori Rahm), and Marcia. Then came ten grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Mel retired from Armour in 1989. His hobbies were bowling, golf, bridge, and traveling. 

Memorial Service 11 AM with visitation beginning at 10 AM, Friday, June 12, 2026 at Kok Funeral Home 7676 80th Street S., Cottage Grove, Minnesota 55016.

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