George was born in August 1933 in New Orleans, Louisiana, passing away on July 18, 2026, in St. Louis, Missouri, at the age of 92. He lived a long and meaningful life marked by devotion to family, service to his country and community, hard work, faith, humor, and love.
While attending high school in New Orleans, Louisiana, George joined the United States Marine Corps Reserves, where he served for ten years from 1951 to 1961, attaining the rank of Sergeant. He later served as a police officer in New Orleans during the early 1960s, before moving to St. Louis in 1967.
George worked in the mid-60s for Chrysler’s Space Division, building one of the rocket boosters in New Orleans for the Saturn 1 rocket program. He later transferred to St. Louis to continue working for Chrysler in the Fenton plant. His dedication, skill, and strong work ethic were evident throughout his life. In 1994, he began his well-earned retirement.
George was married to the love of his life, Jerlene Marie Rizan Hotard, on October 21, 1953. Together, they shared 72 years of marriage, building a life centered on family, faith, and lasting memories.
George is survived by his beloved wife, Jerlene; his three sons, George Jr. (Diane), Steve (Kathy), and David; grandchildren Greg, Tom (Stephanie), Michelle, Dan (Andrea), and Chris (Emily); and seven great-grandchildren Cecilia, Christian, Zachary, Jacob, Riley, Miles, and Evelyn.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mabel Bergeron Hotard, and his eight siblings: F. Patrick “Pat” Hotard, Calvin “Dutch” Hotard, Malcolm Hotard, Juanita Ganci, Delores Jordy, Rosemary Vallelungo, Doris Rosenburg, and Lois Ricca.
As a man of Catholic faith, he attended St. Paul’s parish in Fenton and then St. Catherine Laboure church in Sappington. He was very dedicated to his beliefs and took great comfort in his relationship with God.
George enjoyed crossword puzzles, the outdoors, camping, and Sunday family gatherings that often included watching Rams football on TV, roast beef po’boys, and cheeseburgers—especially with bacon.
Those who knew George will remember his fantastic sense of humor, his loving nature, and the joy he brought to others. He was happy, content, and truly an all-around wonderful person to know. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.
SERVICES: Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 20, 2026, at Kutis Funeral Home, 10151 Gravois Road, St. Louis, Missouri 63123. FUNERAL SERVICE WILL BE LIVE STREAMED AT https://together.oneroomstreaming.com/SHR2YQ