John N Botens

John N. Botens, 81 of Waters, died at home on Monday, August 5, 2013. Born in Middletown, NY on January 25, 1932, he was the son of Augustine and Catherine (Winner) Botens. After graduating from high school in Middletown, John attended Manhattan College of the Christian Brothers where he received his bachelor’s degree. From 1954-56 he served on active duty with the U.S. Army. He served in the Army Reserves until 1961. John settled in Michigan where he worked for a time in the missile division of Chrysler Corporation. He taught school at Kimball High School in the Royal Oak Public Schools from 1963 until retiring in 1994. While teaching, John returned to school himself, receiving his master’s degree from Wayne State University. He taught Latin, was director of the schools National Honor Society program and he was an advisor with student theater. John was a member of the Michigan Education and National Education Associations and he served for a number of years as a negotiator. He was an avid skier and had a passion for trains. In 1994 John was preceded in death by his wife, Helen (Lane) Botens. Surviving are his son and daughter-in-law, Chris and Peggy Borst Botens of Waters; a grandson, Christopher Michael (Adrienne Bell) Botens of Perrysburg, OH; great grandchildren Christopher Matthew and Ashley Grace Botens both of Perrysburg, OH and a brother, Will (Rochelle) Botens of Berkeley. He was preceded in death by a stepson, Joseph Stellato III in 1967; Brothers Paul and James Botens. Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM Thursday, August 8th at Gaylord Community Funeral Home, 850 North Center Ave. followed by a Scripture Service at 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, August 9th at St. Mary Cathedral. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the family for a charity to be chosen later. Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home.