Carl Hotchkiss

Carl Edward Hotchkiss was born in Des Moines, Iowa on March 24, 1958 to Walter and Barbara (Bogardus) Hotchkiss, the youngest of three children. He passed away surrounded by his loving family on February 13, 2024, following a 27 month battle against cancer. KJ was at his side every day.

Carl graduated from Lincoln High School in 1976. He continued his education at the University of Arkansas. After his freshman year he transferred to the University of Northern Iowa graduating in 1980 with a Business Management and Marketing Degree. His career in the food brokerage industry included positions with Durkee Spices, Acosta and the last 20 years as a category manager with Casey’s in Ankeny, Iowa. He continued working through January 10, 2024.

Carl and the love of his life, Kelly Jo (KJ), met while playing softball in 1992. They were united in Marriage on March 16, 1996. They were totally devoted to each other. Captiva Island became a treasured, annual vacation destination.

Carl loved and excelled at sports – baseball, golf, softball, tennis, skiing, fishing, racquetball and pickleball. Boating was his passion. Carl and KJ were at Saylorville boating at every opportunity. There was always an open invitation to join them. They loved tying up with their many boating friends and enjoying a good drink, food and conversation.

Several years ago, a stress reliever for Carl became detailing vehicles – boy was he good at it! Carl loved spending time with family and friends. His unparalleled sense of humor and positive attitude endeared him to all. He was always singing – his love of music included all genres.

Carl is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Kelly Jo; fur babies, Maddi Jo and Beckham Ray; sister, Connee Lees (Randal); brother, Duane Hotchkiss (Mary); in-laws, Kimberly Sacker (Gary), Timothy Cox Sr., Terri Williams (George), Kerry (George) Cox, Ivan Cox II; nieces and nephews, Christopher (Brittany) Lees, Curtis Lees, Anthony (Alyssa) Fernades, Dustin Reed, Andrew (Katie) Cox, Stephanie (Timothy) Cox, Timothy Cox, Jr., Austin (Jayme) Sacker, Samantha Cox, Zachary Cox, Justin (Bria) Sacker and Jacob Cox, as well as his many great nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Barbara Hotchkiss; his fur child, Cody Joe (CJ), father-in-law, Ivan Cox Sr. and mother-in-law, Judith Cox.

We are so appreciative of the support for Carl and KJ, provided by his bosses Anthony and Phil and the team at Casey’s. Thanks also to KJ’s Principal, Ashley and friends at Brubaker Elementary. A special thanks to Maurene and Bruce for stepping in as bonus parents to Maddi Jo and Beckham Ray.

Family will greet friends on Friday, February 23, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines, Iowa. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 10:00 a.m., at the funeral home. Following his service burial will take place at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery in Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be donated to EveryStep Hospice or ARL Animal Rescue League of Iowa, 5452 NE 22nd Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50313

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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