Craig Michael "Mike" Hotrum

Hotrum, Craig Michael "Mike" of Kalamazoo, Michigan Passed away on July 9, 2013 with family by his side. He was born on July 3, 1952 to Clara L. and Charles Hotrum. Mike was preceded in death by his mother and step-father, Clara and L.M.; and father, Charles Hotrum. He is survived by the love of his life, Lynn; seven children, Jenettia Joe Gay of Gobles, Heather Scott Smith of Otsego, Chris Amber Hotrum of Mississippi, Katie Hotrum of Kalamazoo, Steve Hotrum of Kalamazoo, Jamie of Kalamazoo and Michelle of Kalamazoo. Also surviving are his grandchildren, John, Ethan, Abigail, Christian, Julia, Shawna, Josh, Summer and Emmalee; step-grandchildren; a very special sister, Charlene Rick Sylvester of Florida; brothers, David Betty Hotrum of Florida, Richard Hotrum and Charlamain Hotrum; and nieces and nephews. Mike loved spending time outdoors gardening, planting flowers and sun bathing. He enjoyed taking early morning walks, while the city was still peaceful and asleep. His top ambition in life was to have a family. He was an amazing, loving and compassionate father and grandfather and always encouraged his children to do their very best at everything they did. No matter what he would always be proud of their accomplishments and obstacles they had overcome. He will always be remembered for turning a bad situation into a joke and for being a one of a kind dad to all of his children. Mike was also an astonishing cook and always cooked enough for an army, which was a good thing due to the size of his family. His specialty was his BBQ ribs. He could tell you a story that no matter how outrageous, one believed it. He will be forever in our hearts and greatly missed. Cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.