Thomas Ronald Kotara

Ronald was born November 30, 1934 to the late Sam and Irene Kotara.  He attended schools in Groom and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin.  He had been a Panhandle resident for 52 years.  He married Janie Lynch on June 1, 1957 in Dallas, TX.   Ronald was a longtime member of St. Theresa's Catholic Church.  He was very active in the Farmer's Union organization, where he held various state offices.  He was a retired member of the Panhandle School Board, and the when he first moved to Panhandle was instrumental in starting the Jaycee's- a service community organization.  He was a longtime member of the ASCS committee, and was also a charter member of the Panhandle Country Club.          One of Ronald's most meaningful memories was when he was selected by the bishop in Amarillo to receive communion from Pope John Paul II when he visited San Antonio in 1987. Ronald enjoyed all sports, but he especially loved watching his children and grandchildren play throughout the years.  He was truly a dedicated Panhandle Pantherettes fan.  When he wasn't attending basketball games or football games, he was known for his "contests" with his many friends.Survivors include his wife Janie of 53 years; his daughters Kathleen Kotara of McKinney, Patricia Looten and husband Dan of Panhandle, Alison Cassidy and husband Jay of Prosper, his sons Tom  Kotara and wife Lane of Shallowater, and Stan Kotara and wife Mary of Lubbock; and eight grandchildren; three sisters, Cece Pounds of Albuquerque, Elayne Sanchez of Amarillo and Sandy McWherter of McKinney; two brothers, Wayne Kotara of Groom and Dennis Kotara of Panhandle.

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