Patricia Ann Kottemann

Patricia Ann Kottemann (89) Of Alexandria, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 23, 2026. Patricia was the loving wife of the late Sgt. Major Richard Henry Kottemann; devoted mother to Tina Kottemann and Anita Barth; cherished grandmother to Christopher Barth, Joseph Barth, Alexandria Kottemann, and Justin Kottemann; and proud great-grandmother to Timothy Barth, Kyle Barth, and Brennan Lerol. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Patricia was born on May 20, 1937, in St. Louis, Missouri, to George Moller and Sally O’Brien. Her early years were filled with unique experiences, including time spent living with relatives, residing in a boathouse along the Mississippi River, and attending a one-room schoolhouse. While in high school, Patricia met the love of her life, Richard Kottemann. Their romance endured when Richard joined the Army and was stationed in Germany. Not long after, he proposed by letter, one she joyfully accepted. They were married during his leave before he returned to duty. After graduating, Patricia joined him overseas, beginning a life of travel and adventure as a military family. Their first daughter was born in Germany, and their second in Japan, as they built a life together across continents. Patricia worked for Fairfax County Public Schools as a cafeteria assistant, where she became a familiar and friendly presence to many students and staff—especially at Mount Vernon High School, where she served for many years. She was also a proud Girl Scout in her youth and later served as a dedicated Scout Leader, guiding and mentoring young girls in her community. Following Richard’s military retirement, they settled in Alexandria, Virginia, in the 1980s. Patricia was a lifelong and dedicated member of the Daughters of the Union Veterans of the Civil War 1861–1865, serving the organization faithfully for 73 years. Her commitment and leadership culminated in her role as Past National President, a position that reflected her deep respect for history, heritage, and service. Patricia’s life was one of resilience, devotion, and quiet strength. Whether supporting her family, contributing to her community, or preserving the legacy of those who came before her, she did so with steady grace and unwavering commitment. Relatives and friends are invited to gather at Jefferson Funeral Chapel on Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, with a funeral service immediately following. A graveside service at Arlington National Cemetery will be held at a later date. Instead of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Patricia’s honor to the Daughters of the Union Veterans of the Civil War 1861–1865, the Fisher House Foundation, or a charity of your choice. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, loyalty, and love—woven through generations and carried forward by all who knew her.

Tributes

Patricia Ann Kottemann

May 20, 1936 - March 23, 2026