It is with great sadness that the Hottle family announces the passing of our beloved father and grandfather, Donald Michael “Mickey” Hottle, on Sunday, June 8, 2025. Born on April 7, 1932, in Charleston, West Virginia, Mickey was preceded in death by his cherished wife of 63 years, Gerry; his parents, Lloyd and Iola; and his brother, Ed.Mickey graduated from Sherman High School in 1950. In April 1952, he joined the United States Air Force, where he served in the 42nd Air Refueling Squadron and completed active duty during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in April 1956. Upon returning home, he used the GI Bill to attend Morris Harvey College (now the University of Charleston), earning his teaching degree. He began his career at Sherman High School, where he taught typing, accounting, and general business. In the mid-1980s, he continued his education and earned a master’s degree from Marshall University. A dedicated educator and community leader, Mickey also served as Scoutmaster of Troop 33 in Whitesville. Even after retiring, he continued to substitute teach, always eager to stay connected to the classroom. In full retirement, he enjoyed gardening and spending time at Flat Top Lake.Mickey is survived by his two sons: Rich Hottle and his wife, Susan, of South Charleston, WV; and Rob Hottle and his wife, Renee, of Monroe, NC. He was a proud grandfather to Chris Hottle and his wife, Chrissy, of Mooresville, NC; Anna Hottle of Charlotte, NC; and Rob Pichardo of Pittsburgh, PA. He was also a great-grandfather to London, Wyatt, and Lila Hottle of Mooresville, NC, and an uncle to many adoring nieces and nephews. To all who knew him—as a teacher, friend, father, or Paw Paw—Mickey will be remembered as one of the kindest souls they ever met. He will be deeply missed.In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Hospice of Southern West Virginia at the link below. https://www.hospiceofsouthernwv.org/donate.
Visitation will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, June 13, at Armstrong Funeral Home, followed by a brief service at 1:00 pm with Pastor Gary Daniels officiating. A graveside ceremony with Military Honors will immediately follow at Pineview Cemetery.