James A. Hotson, 78 of Independence, MO passed away Friday, February 6th, 2015 at the John Knox Village Hospice. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by his family and friends. A lifelong resident of Independence, Jim was born Jan. 30, 1937 to William A. (Wayne) and Lenora Hotson. He was preceded in death by his son Douglas Hotson. He is survived by his children, Mike Davis, Robert Davis, Scott Hotson and Jill Hotson-Phar, and seven grandchildren, Nicole Blake, Natalie Leach, Erica Hotson, Aaron Davis, Laura Hotson, Cary Hotson and Daniel Hotson. Special mention must be made of his beloved cats, his “boys,” “Spike” and “Sparky.” Special thanks to his caretakers Connie Stanley, Chris Novak, Rhonda Lather and Austin Parker who made it possible for his daughter Jill to honor his wish to remain in the home until his passing. Jim graduated from Northeast High School in 1955. He served his country in the US Air Force. He was a Prudential Insurance agent for 20 years, but his greatest passion was The Midwest Singles Dance that he owned and operated for 20 plus years, ending in 2013. Being a hopeless romantic, he took joy in the many couples who met at the dance and later married, only regretting they were no longer customers!
Jim was an outstanding bowler. Bowling was his sports passion from early childhood. He was proud of his many triumphs, and was enriched by the friendships he maintained among his many teammates throughout the years, and within the Kansas City area bowling community. His favorite leisure pursuit was bank fishing from under a shade tree for carp and catfish.
Jim may be most remembered as a mentor to an entire generation of boys through coaching little league baseball in Independence for over 20 years, first with his son Doug’s teams starting in 1967, sponsored by O’dell Tractor, then with Scott’s teams sponsored by former Hiboy restaurant owner Jerry Mackey. Long after his own sons’ little league baseball careers ended, he continued as a little league coaching icon in Independence for more than another decade.
Much gratitude goes to Dennis Alt, a true and loyal friend to the end, who faithfully visited Jim throughout his bought with Alzheimer’s. Thanks also to the John Knox Village Hospice for their dedication, kindness and compassion.
Visitation will be Thursday, February 12th at 6 p.m. at New Salem Funeral Home, 1823 N. Blue Mills Rd. Independence, MO 64058 with services to directly follow at 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers please make donations to John Knox Village Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Arr: New Salem Funeral Home (816) 796-8600