Bruce Andrew Kotzan

Bruce Andrew Kotzan of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away on January 18,2026, with his wife at his side.

Known for his larger-than-life presence and his quick-witted humor, Bruce commanded the room, whether it was the court room or a friend’s dining room. He was a raconteur with a talent for sharing the perfect details – none of which was unnecessary – to elicit the exact response sought. Much of the time, that response was a gut-bellied laugh, which he followed with a cheshire cat smile and an unassuming chuckle.

Bruce was born in East Chicago and graduated from East Chicago Roosevelt High School in 1962. Afterward, he earned Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Jurisprudence degrees at Indiana University, Bloomington.

After law school, Bruce served as a commissioned officer in the United States Air Force. His service included assignments at KI Sawyer Air Force Base, Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base in Thailand, Eglin Air Force Base and Grissom Air Force Base. Later, he joined the USAF Reserves where he served some 20 years before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1994, with a total of 28 years of service to the Air Force. In 1987, Bruce led the investigation into an Air Force Corsair II crash into the Ramada Inn at the Indianapolis International Airport, which earned him The Meritorious Service Medal.

After his military career, Bruce became Indiana’s first Administrator of Courts, serving the Indiana Supreme Court. When he retired from working with the Court, he joined his best friend, John Forbes, in private practice.

On January 27, 1968, Bruce married the love of his life, Christina Bancroft Kotzan. The two shared a love of animals and travel – two things that inspired many of Bruce’s beloved stories. Together, Bruce and Tina visited many countries around the world and enjoyed learning the history and culture of modern and ancient civilizations.

If Bruce wasn’t dutifully completing his “Honey Do” list, which often included fine carpentry, gardening, and electrical wiring, he could be found on the golf course. Golf was his favorite sport and one that gave him significant bragging rights. He played many of the world’s toughest courses, made three holes in one, and enjoyed a handicap of 8. Golf also gave Bruce time to hone his storytelling skills among his friends and colleagues, while simultaneously making story-worthy memories.

Since moving into their Meridian-Kessler home in 1980, Bruce and Tina spent many hours working on their historic home and vast gardens. They enjoyed creating beautiful spaces, feeding and photographing the abundant wildlife, and sharing meals with friends.

Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Christina Bancroft Kotzan, his sister-in-law, Lois Kotzan, his niece, Catherine Linder and her family, and his nephew, Michael Kotzan and his family.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Flanner Buchanan – Broad Ripple, 1305 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, from 12:00-2:00pm, with funeral service immediately following.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Best Friends Animal Society.