Natalie Jean (Festerling) Kottman

Natalie Jean (Festerling) Kottman, R.N., age 52, of Commerce Township passed away peacefully January 1st, 2021 at her home surrounded by family, friends and loving caregivers.

Natalie was born April 15, 1968 in Okinawa, Japan to Gerald G. and Arlene K. (Bayha) Festerling while serving in the United States Air Force. 

Natalie graduated from Petoskey High School in 1986 and continued her education at Lake Superior State University earning a B.S. degree in nursing with honors.  On July 6th, 1996 she was united in marriage to Matthew James Kottman.  They celebrated their Renewal of Wedding Vows on December 6th, 2020 after nearly 25 years of marriage.

Natalie was a passionate neurosurgical nurse working at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.  She excelled under the demands and fast pace of operating rooms where she assisted neurosurgeons with life-saving procedures.  Ten years into her profession, an accident forced Natalie to retire from the career she loved dearly.  She maintained her nursing credentials and became an advocate and resource person to those who sustained a spinal cord injury.

Natalie enjoyed spending time with their daughter Kala, as well as family and friends.  Natalie had a zest for life which she lived to the fullest and became loved and respected by many for her inspiration, wit, lovable quirks, and a tenacity that overcame her physical limitations.  When she was not planning the next worldly trip she was busy collecting, painting, or seeking out the latest fashion item.  She truly touched the lives of so many and will be dearly missed by all.

Natalie is survived by her husband Matthew J. Kottman, her mother Arlene K. Festerling of Harbor Springs, MI, a daughter Kala G. Kottman of Harbor Springs, MI, and a sister Sherry L. (John) Beach of Harbor Springs, MI, and many nieces and nephews.  Natalie is preceded in death by her father Gerald G. Festerling. 

Public visitations will occur in Walled Lake and Petoskey.  Visitation in Walled Lake will begin on Tuesday, January 5th, at 10:00 – 11:00am at St. Matthew Lutheran Church located at 2040 S. Commerce Rd., Walled Lake, MI 48390.  A church service will follow officiated by Rev. Paul Moldenhauer. 

Visitation in Petoskey will begin on Friday, January 8th, from 2:00 – 8:00pm at Stone Funeral Home located at 2098 E. Mitchell Rd., Petoskey, MI 49770.  A Saturday funeral home viewing will begin at 10:00am followed by a memorial service starting at 1:00pm, officiated by Rev. Matthew Peters.  Burial will take place after procession to Greenwood Cemetery at 2:30pm.

Natalie’s family wishes to thank the people of Aegis Health Perspectives, Feinburg Consulting, and the physical rehabilitation centers for their loving care and dedication provided throughout the years.

Donations can be made in Natalie’s name to further her mission in helping those with SCI at The Mary and Charles A. Parkhill Foundation for Spinal Cord Rehabilitation. www.parkhillfoundation.com

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