Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration

CMHS Consumer Affairs E-News
December 19, 2006, Vol. 06-129

Remembering Consumer Leaders

At this time of the year, it is important to recognize the passing of those who have contributed to improving the lives of people with mental health problems. One such individual is Mr. George Kotwitz of Oklahoma who passed away on December 15th.

Born in 1936, George Kotwitz served his nation in the U.S. Marine Corps and was in the insurance business for many years including owning his own business. In 1988, he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and unable to continue his work. Eventually he turned his illness around, and being the generous person he was, he gave back to the mental health community serving on numerous boards and committees, being a consumer advocate, and speaking at conferences throughout the country. He was active in many mental health organizations including the Older Adult Mental Health Consumers' Association, the National Alliance for Mental Illness, and the Depression and Bi-Polar Support Alliance as well as was a board member of the Geriatric Mental Health Foundation where he was recently elected for another three year term. He was also active in various civic organizations including the Shriners, the Chamber of Commerce, and his church. Over the last two years, George was able to go back and own his own company again. He gave forty-six years in a wonderful marriage, and was a loving and respected father and grandfather. He also liked to golf, do oil painting, and had a wonderful sense of humor. George's life is a testament to recovery – of people with mental health problems overcoming the challenges that face them and to go on and contribute greatly to our communities.

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The Center for Mental Health Services is a component of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, United States Department of Health and Human Services.