William James Gotte Jr., known affectionately to friends and family as “Jr.” or “Bill,” passed away peacefully on Friday, November 28, 2025.

Born on the July 31, 1956, in Jennings, Louisiana, Bill was a cherished son of the late William James Gotte Sr. and Shirley (Boudreaux) Gotte. He was a graduate of Beaumont French High School and built a life dedicated to his three boys while living mostly in Katy Texas until moving to Bayou Vista after the youngest graduated to be close to the water.

Bill’s life’s epicenter was his three sons, who were his greatest pride and joy. Bill shared his love of cars, sports, the ocean and food with his boys. From taking them to car shows when they were little, beach trips to the gulf coast, and always weekends barbecuing his famous chicken, ribs, and sausage while having a few cold Miller Lites, jar of green olives and that stove top popped popcorn no one will forget – Bill loved spending time with his boys. One of if not the favorite things Bill loved doing was watching his boys compete (football and baseball). You could always find him standing on the fence down the right field line or on the opposite teams bleachers opposite of the band – always discrete and with his ball cap and blue jeans on.

Bill was very proud of his service in the U.S. Marine Corps and Marine Corps Reserves, which lasted from 1975 to 1981. His service began with the completion of the Machine Gunner (MOS 0331) course at the Infantry Training School in Camp Pendleton, California, in October 1975. He received a Meritorious Mast for “an outstanding example for his fellow Marines to emulate” during annual training, earned a Rifle Sharpshooter Badge and Jungle Expert designation, and achieved the rank of Sergeant and a proud Military Police Position before his honorable discharge in Beaumont, Texas, in 1981.

For over 30 years, Bill worked at Composite Thread Protectors, which was acquired by Hunting in September 2011.

He found his greatest joy in the simple moments spent with his family.

He is survived by Ex Wife Gale, her husband C.R. both of whom he considered family….. bill was remarried to Donna Gotte; he was also survived by his three sons: William James Gotte III married to Lisa of Freindswood, Texas, Jeffrey James Gotte and his wife Aubrey of Austin, Texas and Brad Lee Gotte and his wife Nayeon of McLean, Virginia.  Bill was also a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Keegan, Braddock, Gavin, Clara, and Síwoo. He leaves behind his siblings, Phylis, Eddie, and Donna (Don Don), as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.  He was preceded in death by his parents, William Sr. and Shirley, and his big brother, Joey Gotte.

Bill will be remembered for his charismatic, playful presence, and his unwavering love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, service, and family devotion that will continue to live on through his children and grandchildren.