Roll Call Tribute

Stephen B. Hottman 

July 7, 1954 - March 23, 2024 

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of 69-year-old Stephen B. Hottman on March 23, 2024. He was born on July 7, 1954, in Houston, Texas, the third of eight siblings. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jeannette and Clarence Hottman.

He obtained his Bachelor’s and Master’s in Psychology at Texas A&M University, a PhD in Psychology from NMSU, and Stephen would later be recruited by the US military to provide his expertise for the successful execution of countless military missions over four decades.

As a pioneer in the field of UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), Stephen worked with various government agencies across the globe from Europe, New Zealand, and Alaska. Stephen paved the way for a new generation of technology that brought drones to the military and greatly minimized the loss of American lives in our country and in foreign lands.

His many accolades and successful career roles included:

PSL/NMSU - 21st Century Aerospace, Program Manager; Columbia Scientific Balloon Facility, NASA contractor; Technical Analysis and Application Center, Director; Physical Science Laboratory, Director; Associate Dean of Research and Development; Author of Unmanned Aircraft Systems; Retired PSL/NMSU 2018.

At a young age, Stephen was described by his siblings as mischievous, always in the background making light of situations, finding humor in things, quick to laugh, having a good time dancing around. As a dedicated family man, he raised two rambunctious boys Evan and Michael Hottman, who served their country in the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps respectively. Stephen was passionate about his work and loved the outdoors. He was often seen at his Rancho Mariposa with family in Pie Town, NM. He was known for his famous (strong) margaritas and parties that lasted all night. His generosity knew no bounds and was always ready and willing to help those in need. Patience was a definite strength in career of research, however, patience and following directions was not a forte. His life was navigated by the love for his family and in death his love will continue to live on in those he left behind.

He is survived and mourned by his beloved wife, Helen Hottman; his children: Evan Hottman (Vanessa), Ft. Worth, TX, Michael Hottman (Victoria), Houston, TX, Iris Flechsenhaar, Albuquerque, NM, and Ivy Ivy Contreras (Gilbert), Seminole, TX; seven siblings: Bill Hottman (Joy), Houston, TX, Mary Wood, Austin, Tx, Cindy Peevy (Robert), Houston, TX, Suzanne Metzger, Houston, TX, Tom Hottman (Sarah), Houston, TX, Annette Borkowski (Rick), Durango, Co, Brian Hottman (Debbie), Houston, TX; and six grand-children: Kaylee, Riley, Andrew, Ali Rose, Yovani, and Santiago.

A prayer vigil will be held on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Baca’s Funeral Chapel, 300 E Boutz Rd. Visitations will begin at 5:00 P.M. Recitation of the Holy Rosary is scheduled to begin at 6:00 P.M. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, April 5, 2024, at 2:00 P.M. at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 1327 N Miranda Street. Father Richard Catanach will be the Celebrant. Following the service cremation will take place and an inurnment and rite of committal will be scheduled at the Holy Cross Columbarium.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca’s Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory. For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com