Theodore A. Kotila

Theodore (Ted) Alexander Kotila, 83, retired Professor of History and Interdisciplinary Studies, passed away at his home in Pleasant Ridge, MI on Tuesday, May 25, 2021. Born in Detroit on August 10, 1937, he was the son of Theodore Alexander Kotila, Sr. and Ruth Marie Holappa.

Throughout his 83 years, Ted was a true interdisciplinarian and lifelong learner. His interests and pursuits included cross country skiing, golf, fly fishing, photography, academic writing and presenting, teaching non-traditional adult students, reading histories and mysteries, wine tasting, chefing, traveling, gardening, listening to folk music, jazz, and classical music, and strengthening bonds of family, friends, and community. Life with Ted was filled with engaging discussions, covering a wide range of topics. With his sense of humor and underlying penchant for historical analysis, Ted could turn the seemingly boring topic into the “I want to learn more” topic. He made you think, reflect, and want to delve deeper. In many ways, even after he retired from Wayne State University in 1997, Professor Ted never left the classroom.

Ted is survived by Linda Lora Hulbert to who he was the loving husband and soul mate for 27 years.

He is also survived by his son, Peter Christian Kotila (Patricia Ireland), and cherished grandsons Henry, Christian, and Charles, his brother William Kotila (Colleen), nieces Jennifer Koch (Anthony) and Kimberly Kastenholz, as well as many cousins, colleagues and friends across the US who are sad to see him pass on.

Predeceasing Ted, Judith Jensen, his first wife and mother of his children, and son Christopher Paul Kotila.

A memorial service will be held at Wessels and Wilk Funeral Home, 23690 Woodward Avenue, Pleasant Ridge, Michigan, 48069, on Saturday, June 5, 2021, opening at 12:00 PM, with services beginning at 2:00 PM. The service will be live-streamed and is accessible at the link below in the services section of the obituary page.

Continued celebration of Ted and his life will follow in a more relaxed and informal gathering at Gainsborough Park, located .7 miles from the service at the end of Devonshire Road, in Pleasant Ridge.

Memorial contributions can be made in Ted’s honor to Habitat for Humanity. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.wesselsandwilk.com

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