Raimund "Ray" Walter Kotterer

Raimund (Ray) Walter Kotterer, 90, of Blufton, SC died February 19, after an illness resulting in hospitalization. He was surrounded and supported by the love of his three children at Friends of Caroline Hospice Home in Bluffton.

Born in Augsburg, Germany, in 1933, Raimund’s life was characterized by the determination, resilience, and grit he instilled in his children. Leaving everything he called “home,” he traveled to America at the age of 18 to apprentice in the field of woodworking under his uncle’s direction and care. After living in America he enrolled in the US Army, served as a master tank gunner in the 8th Infantry and was stationed back in Germany where he met his lifetime love and companion, Maria.

One of Ray’s earliest childhood memories was surviving a bombing of their apartment building during an air raid of WWII. This instilled in him a determination to provide a strong household, teaching his children to “suck it up” and that life is indeed what you make of it. Using his skills as a woodworker, he crafted unique and beautiful pieces that still adorned his home, 70+ years later.

He enjoyed travel with Maria, visiting places all over the world, caring for their beloved dogs, and also made time with grandchildren a priority. He finished the final chapter of his life with the support of friends in Sun City, SC.

Raimund was preceded in death by both parents, Barbara and Kaspar Kotterer, and his wife Maria. He is survived by two sisters, Hanelore Martin of Loveland, Ohio, and Inge Baumgartner of Augsburg, Germany.

Ray is also survived by his three children, Barbara Pappas (Andy), Raymond Kotterer, Jr. (Sharon), and Thomas Kotterer (Andrea). He had seven grandchildren: Allison, Anne Marie, Caroline, Daniella, Erika, Nikolas, and Zachary. He also had four great-grandchildren: Amelia, Mina Marie, Shepherd, and William.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at a time to be determined later this summer. Memorials can be made to Friends of Caroline Hospice House in Ridgeland, SC.