It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of Donald Leroy Hotchkiss Jr. He passed peacefully on June 28, 2026, due to complications from pancreatic cancer. Born in San Francisco, California at Letterman General on the Presidio, April 8, 1954, Donald was the cherished son of Gwendolyn Lanni Hotchkiss and Donald Leroy Hotchkiss Sr.

His early years were spent traversing the globe due to his Father's military Service. Stationed in Germany, and Turkey where he was exposed to significant historical sites, and experiences. They also lived in California and Arizona. When his father retired from the military they settled in Sierra Vista, Arizona. After graduating from Sierra Vista High School in 1972, his educational pursuits led him to the University of Arizona in Tucson, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He was a 4 year ROTC Cadet. While serving in the Army he earned a master’s degree in construction management from Boston University. Donald’s journey was one marked by service, intellect, and an unwavering commitment to his country and community.

In 1977, Donald was commissioned into the United States Army, serving with distinction for 12 years as a Captain in the 65th Division Engineer Battalion. His military service took him across Germany, Hawaii, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and New Mexico, where he contributed to the Star Wars program under President Reagan’s administration. He earned Medals for Meritorious Service, Commendation, Achievement, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and Parachute Badge.

Following his military career, Donald transitioned to a role as an Environmental Engineer at Fort Huachuca in Sierra Vista, Arizona. His professional journey continued in Las Vegas, Nevada with influential positions at the NV State Public Works Board, GC Wallace, Nevada by Design, URS Corp, Nevada National Security Site, as Systems Engineer at Jasper, and Principal Engineer - Critical Site Infrastructure. Most recently joined Aztech Materials Testing Inc., where he served as a Principal Engineer. He also served as an appointed commissioner on the Las Vegas Historic Preservation Board.

Donald was a man of many passions and pursuits. A historian at heart, he was deeply involved with the Sons of the American Revolution, where he held the esteemed position of President and was honored with Medals for Distinguished and Meritorious Service, and inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2024. His passion for history extended to his establishing the Las Vegas Civil War Round Table. He served for many years on the Friends of the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort Historic Site committee, filling many leadership roles. He will be remembered for his successful fundraising efforts for the organizations he was involved with. He always made a difference for the organizations he was involved with and left his mark.

An avid Civil War reenactor, Donald brought history to life through his participation with the Sussex Light Dragoon and 8th Illinois Cavalry Volunteers. He was a past commander of both Union and Confederate Veterans Camps. His dedication to historical education was evident in his presentations to schools and community groups, where he shared his extensive research on genealogy and Civil War history, and historical events.

Beyond his professional and historical pursuits, Donald was a talented woodworker, crafting beautiful furniture and lending his skills to friends and neighbors. His leadership qualities and problem-solving abilities were admired by all who knew him, and his legacy as a dedicated educator and public speaker will be fondly remembered.

Donald is survived by his wife, Carol H. Hotchkiss. He leaves behind 2 daughters, Abby (Evan) Wilson, Hannah (Brok) Watts, a brother, Gary (Cindy) Hotchkiss, as well as five cherished grandchildren, nephews, nieces, great nephews and nieces, many dear Hotchkiss cousins and relatives. He was predeceased by his grandmother, Margaret, and his parents.

The family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate Donald’s life on Friday September 11, 2026. Service at 11:00 am at the LDS Chapel, 485 E Mission Dr., Henderson, Nevada 89002. Internment at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City at 12:40 pm. In honor of his memory, donations may be made to the Cattaraugus County Memorial and Historical Building for the Civil War Memorial Restoration Project. https://cattcomemorial.org/donate/

Donald Leroy Hotchkiss Jr. will be remembered as a consummate patriot, defender of freedom, and a beacon of knowledge to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

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