Don Kothmann

Don William Kothmann passed away on Friday, March 22, 2013 with his family by his side. Don was born January 1, 1953 in Austin, Texas.

Don is survived by his wife, Sheila Gregg Kothmann; his son, William Wade Kothmann and his wife, Vani Pariyadath; his daughter, Kara Loren Kothmann; his mother, Hildegarde Kothmann; his brother and sister-in-law, Rodney and Becky Kothmann; and his father- and mother-in-law, Jesse and Louise Gregg. He was preceded in death by his father, William Dale Kothmann.

Don was raised in Austin, but spent summers at the family ranch in Mason County. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1968, and graduated from John H. Reagan High School in 1971. Don then attended the University of Texas at Austin where he played baritone in the Longhorn marching band. He was inducted into several honor societies, including Phi Beta Kappa, and graduated with high honors in 1975. Don completed his education at the University of Texas School of Law, and received his J.D. in December of 1977 with academic honors in Phi Delta Phi. He was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in May of 1978.

During his distinguished legal career, Don tried numerous cases before juries, including many in the appellate courts of Texas. He had seven published opinions decided by the Supreme Court of Texas, and received an AV Preeminent rating from his peers, the highest possible rating for professional excellence. He was a partner at the Austin law firm of Knolle, Holcomb, Kothmann, & Callahan.

Don always put his family ahead of his career, taking time to coach soccer from the time his children were old enough to play and continuing until they graduated high school. He obtained a Level “D” license to coach competitive soccer at the state level, and was head coach of three Division I youth soccer teams. He emphasized teamwork and fraternity amongst his players, and was rewarded when they made it to the Western District State Championships on four occasions, which included three undefeated regular seasons.

Most important of all, Don was a loving and devoted father, husband, son, and brother, and a valued colleague. His strong character lives on in his family, and we will forever hold him in our hearts and minds, and strive to make him proud.