Ten years ago the community lost Robert Michael “Mike” Bott, who served Kosciusko County in many ways, according to his family. However, his legacy continues. Bott was a teacher at Warsaw Community Schools, where he taught physical education, health and science for more than 35 years in all levels of education. On behalf of his dedication and passion to science, the Bott Science Scholarship Fund was established in 2003 and is held at the Kosciusko County Community Foundation. Bott will continue to help students for many years through his passion in the health science field. His family said they are honored to be a part of this “meaningful scholarship award.” Over the last nine years the Bott Science Scholarships have been awarded to students Thomas Burnworth, Lucas Gillis, Aaron Turner, Gabriella Schlitta, Jayln Haughee, Ryan Holbrook, Brandi Shepherd, Ryan Murphy, Stephen Straits, Justin Clemens and Scott Wappes. The family stated, “The family, schools and students are thankful for all of those who have donated to the scholarship over the years to assist others in their love for science.” Anyone wanting to make a tax-deductible donation to the Bott Science Scholarship may contact the Kosciusko County Community Foundation at 574- 267-1901 or www.kcfoundation.org Bott loved working with kids and finding the correct approach to helping them learn. He also was a coach for more than 30 years coaching football, basketball, wrestling, track and soccer. He was a co-sponsor for the Warsaw Community High School Ski Club, held the WCHS Science Department chair for more than 14 years, and served on numerous committees and clubs at the high school. He was heading Project Lead the Way to help develop a new engineering science curriculum for the country when he died. He was also a leader in block scheduling and devoted hours pushing what was best for kids to succeed. He cared about everyone he met on and off the field and in the classroom, his family stated. Bott also worked in the summers on construction projects with some of his colleges and his children. He coached each of his own children through sports, work and school. His family said, “Mike Bott leaves behind a legacy of three children and their spouses, and six grandchildren. He was a risk taker, problem solver, devoted husband, and loving father and kept God and his family at the center of his focus. He was a past president of the Sacred Heart School Board and Beaver Dam Lake Conservation Club and was active in several organizations.” Since his passing, Bott has received many honors such as the Bell Ringer Award, an award for prestigious teachers given by the superintendent of education in Indiana, a letter from President George Bush honoring his dedication to education, and the Sixth Man’s Award from WCHS. “The Bott family wishes to thank all of their extended family, friends, and collages for continued prayers, support. They miss him dearly and are grateful for the love and the life lessons he shared,” stated The Bott family, including Tammy, Aaron and Jennifer Bott, Adam and Lisa Bott, Jeff and Alyssa Bott Van Vactor.
