John Albert "Jack" Bott

John Albert “Jack” Bott, of Mercer, Pa., passed away peacefully at his home, Wednesday morning, Nov. 29, 2017, at the age of 84.

John was born to Francis and Mildred Bott on Feb. 17, 1933, in Aliquippa, Pa. He was the youngest of four children and attended Hopewell High School, Penn State University, and Geneva College.

John was a proud veteran who served in the U.S. Army from 1953-1955. He worked at J&L Steel Mill while attending night school. During his career as an engineering draftsman, he worked for the American Bridge Company, Cives Corporation, Jacob Engineering, Salvucci Engineers, Tensor, Inc., and Owens Steel Company.

Known to many as "Coach Bott," he coached youth football and baseball in Hopewell Twp., Pa. from 1964-1978. Jack was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed many fishing trips to Canada with his friends and his nephew, Mark Bott, whom he considered his “second son.” John was known for his kind-hearted nature and his love and loyalty to his family and many longtime friends.

John is survived by his partner, Diane Young; his wife, Carolyn (Trembath) Bott; his children, John “Jack” Bott and Shelly (Bott) Crowder, and their spouses; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; his sister, Betty Dotson; and his nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Mildred; his sister, Catherine; and his brother, Jim.

Jack was cremated, and his ashes will be scattered at Lake Latonka. A memorial service celebrating Jack's life will be held Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Fairview Sunset Room in Bridgeville, Pa.

John’s family is grateful for the condolences and the loving support of their family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Family Hospice & Palliative Care.