William Alexander Hotz Jr. was born to William Augustus Hotz and Maria Magdalena Gallegos on March 3, 1949, in Pagosa Springs. William, known as “Billy” to most, grew up working hard and loving the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and loved every aspect of it. Billy joined the Army after graduation and, upon his return home as a corporal, he landed in Denver, Colo., where he met his future wife, Connie Marie Profitt, who was selling Bibles. They became friends and later married on March 17, 1973, on St. Patrick’s Day. Every anniversary they would go get green ice cream to celebrate. They were blessed with a daughter, Magdalena Alexandra Hotz, on Jan.12, 1983.
Billy’s strong work ethics and accountability working for the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service has been noticed by the public. He was awarded numerous certificates of merits for improving facilities in campgrounds, fighting fires, including that in Yellowstone, and being an accomplished blaster. Less than a year after his grandson was born, Billy said he was retiring to become a full-time grandpa. Hunting and family were Billy’s life. Magdalena was beside her father as he left on Mother’s Day, May 8, to be reunited with his wife.
Billy is preceded in death by his parents, sibling and wife.
He is survived by his only child Magdalena (Emory Draper) and grandson Gabriel Dean Hotz Draper.
There will be a graveside service for Billy at Hill Top Cemetery, Pagosa Springs, on Saturday, June 25, at 10 a.m., with a reception/memorial to follow.
