Lottie Gotschall

Celebrating a Century of Strength, Service, and Love

Lottie Gotschall passed away peacefully at the age of 101 on December 3, 2025, in Westerville, Ohio, surrounded by her loving family. 

Early Life and Heritage

Born Wactawa Jankowski on November 20, 1924, in Amsterdam, Ohio, Lottie was the daughter of Polish immigrants. She attended Polish school in her early elementary years and spoke fluent Polish. Growing up during the Great Depression, Lottie’s formative years were shaped by the challenges and resilience of her family. 

Marriage and Family 

Lottie met her soulmate, Bert Gotschall, in high school and they married after WWII. It was Bert who gave her the nickname “Lottie”, short for Charlotte, the English version of her name, which she changed to be her legal name years later. Together, they built a life filled with love, raising children who were the center of their world. Lottie was predeceased by her devoted husband Bert, and their beloved son, Edward. She is survived by her daughters Carolyn McKinley and Suzanne Waggoner, eight grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. 

Wartime Contributions

During World War II, Lottie answered her country’s call by serving as a riveter at an aircraft factory, working on the historic B29 bomber earning her national recognition as a member of the "Rosie the Riveter" generation. In honor of her service, Lottie was an recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor, a testament to her patriotism. 

Later Years and Interests

Lottie lived independently in her little doll house in Shadyside, Ohio, well into her advanced years. She loved sports, especially Ohio State football and lived to see the Buckeyes defeat Michigan in November. She was an avid reader and worked The NY Times crossword puzzle every morning.

Personal Qualities 

Lottie was an emotional powerhouse and dealt with life as it happened. She will be remembered for her strength of character, optimism, sense of humor and love for her family and friends. She will be dearly missed. 

Funeral Arrangements

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Shadyside OH On a date to be announced later. Interment will follow at Westview Cemetery in Carrollton OH. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Lottie’s remarkable life and share memories. For further information, please contact Carolyn at carolynmckinley@gmail.com or Suzanne at waggsuz@gmail.com