Gaylord L. Hotrum Jr.
June 4, 1968 – June 21, 2026
In accordance with his cremation will take place and a gathering to honor and celebrate his life will be announced. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice, c/o the funeral home.
Obituary
Gaylord Lee Hotrum Jr., age 58, passed away at his home on June 21, 2026. He was born in Kalamazoo on June 4, 1968, the son of Gaylord Hotrum Sr. and Rosemary (McGruder) Hotrum. Raised in a military family he moved often but experienced much. He graduated from Climax Scotts High School, Class of 1986. He would remain a lifetime resident of Southwest Michigan and eventually settled in Bangor. Gaylord was kind, loving and generous. His greatest passion in life was fishing. He was a true fisherman who was only happy when tying a bate, casting a line or telling a story. He participated in many local events and won several Bass tournaments. He was also an accomplished cook and enjoyed a homemade meal rather than eating out. He worked hard when he needed to and spent his career in retail. Gaylord loved his family and his friends and leaves behind many wonderful memories to cherish. In 2019, he married the love of his life Michelle Hotrum who survives. He is also survived by two children, Ryan and Alex Hotrum; mother, Rosemary Hotrum; siblings, Rob Hotrum, Buck (Carol) Hotrum; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He was preceded in passing by his father Gaylord Sr.
I had the pleasure of working with Gaylord for over 10 years. He was the first person to step up to help others and was very respectful. I would often get a call on a Friday asking if he could have the next day off to go fishing. I couldn’t tell him no, he lived to fish. He was a good sport and someone you wanted on your team. I will miss him. My condolences go out to his family. I’m so very sad for you.
Words cannot adequately convey how deeply sorry I am for the loss of Gaylord. The love and joy Gaylord brought into our lives will never fade, and he will be dearly missed. Thoughts and prayers to my sister Dutzie, Rob, Buck and their families, and Gaylord’s wife. May Gods grace sustain you.
To the Hotrum family: I am so deeply sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
I am going to miss Gaylord’s daily call to John at Allegan Goodwill. Sometimes three times a day. 😀 Always ready with a quick joke or some solid advice for everyday life. I’m going to miss him. My condolences to his family and friends.
Gaylord brought me into Goodwill and helped me grow with the company. Through that, we became friends and not just colleagues. I will miss him, his morning calls, his sense of humor and his support. Those who knew him will miss him greatly.
My deepest condolences. Gaylord and I worked together for several years at Goodwill. We always sat across from each other at Store Manager meetings. He would tease me every month, questioning whether I had a tea in my cup like I said, or was it a Cayman Jack. I will miss his weekly phone calls asking me what I know. I dread the next meeting where he won’t be there. To his Mother and Brothers please take solace in knowing that he made an impact in many lives and that he will be greatly missed.