John Robert (J.R.) Gortemoller, 73, of Marianna died Friday, October 28, 2016.
Born to Bud and Rita Gortemoller on June 18, 1943 in Oak Park, Illinois. J.R. graduated from Marianna High School in1961. He attended Georgia Tech and graduated from Troy State University in 1966. JR began his teaching/coaching career in Wewahitchka, FL in 1967. He transferred to Sneads High School in 1980 and continued to coach and teach until his retirement in 1999. Many of his football players became like extended family members throughout his coaching career.
J.R.'s passion for drag racing began in his teenage years. This love for racing progressed from owning fast sport cars to pro stock drag racing cars. He was equally passionate about engine building and modification of racecar motors...anything to make them faster. He knew all of the tricks of getting the best performance out of the motor. He met his wife, Patty, at The Fitness Center of Marianna, and they married in 1993. Fitness was a lifestyle for JR. Patty teased him that he only married her for a free lifetime membership to the fitness center. Upon retirement in 1999, JR worked at Patients First Physical Therapy with his wife. He was also a Personal Trainer in The Fitness Center.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bud and Rita Gortemoller; daughter, Michelle Gortemoller and Mother in Law, Hazel Hoff.
JR is survived by his Wife of 23 years, Patty Gortemoller; Daughter, Renee G. Lynn and Husband Robbie; Son John Gortemoller and Wife Emily; Step-Son Mike Milton; Two Brothers, Tom Gortemoller and Wife Lori; James Gortemoller and Wife Jenna; Father in Law, Bob Hoff; Two Brothers in Law, Skipper Hoff and Wife Adaluz; Glenn Hoff and Wife Jackie; Sister in Law, Cyndi Milton; 3 Grandchildren, Dylan Cabaniss; Madelyn Gortemoller and Trinity Lynn; Numerous Nieces and Nephews.
The family will be receiving friends Saturday, November 5, from 1:00-2:00 pm at The Wesley Center, First United Methodist Church in Marianna, FL.
Funeral services will begin at 2:00 pm following visitation at the church with Danny Morris officiating and James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel directing.
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