Justin Todd Kott, 36, of Manistee, passed away Friday, May 8, 2026. He was born May 18, 1989, in Manistee, the son of Bill Kott and Darcie (Finner) Kott.

He graduated from Manistee High School and attended Ferris State University where he received an Associate's Degree in Graphic Design and a Bachelor's of Science. Over the last ten years, he worked for North Peak Brewing Company as a waiter and also did marketing on social media for the restaurant.

Justin was a beautiful soul with a larger-than-life presence and a personality that could light up a room with his sense of humor and smile. His laughter could easily echo throughout a room or for miles and miles — we all know he never did have much of an indoor voice.

Being outside, surrounded by nature, was where he found his peace and place in this world. He was deeply connected to nature, which could be seen through his photography and his sense of outdoor adventure. He loved to fish, hunt, and take walks in the woods on a regular basis. He also found a deep connection with music and lyrics.

If you knew Justin, you knew he was always listening to music, from the moment he woke up to the moment he went to bed. Anything Justin tried in his life always came naturally to him. He was exceptionally good at almost everything he did, including shooting pool, basketball, football, and baseball. He was extremely talented and athletic.

He never got sick of patrons at his restaurant — usually older women swooning over him and often saying, "Do you know who you remind me of?" They would always reply, "A young Tom Cruise." He loved sharing those stories as he would chuckle at just the thought of them.

Justin shared an unbreakable bond with his sister, Dee. Their relationship was built on humor, loyalty, and love. Whenever they were together, you could see they were truly at their happiest. Dee was his rock through every season of life, and the two shared countless memories, laughter, and a connection that could never be replaced.

Justin has left behind family and friends who absolutely adored him, along with a mountain of memories and stories only your wildest dreams could think of. He loved fiercely and deeply. His niece, whom he adored, was the light of his life.

Justin is gone from our sight, but never from our hearts. His memories are our timeless treasures. Justin is deeply loved by his friends and family. Grief is the price we pay for love, and to be loved and to have love is a beautiful thing.

Justin is survived by: his father, Bill; his mother, Darcie Kott; sister, Danielle (Josh) Albright; grandmother, Joanne Kott; niece, Brynn Albright; along with numerous other family and friends.

Justin was preceded in death by: his grandfather, Dave Kott; his grandma and grandpa Audrey and Harold Finner; uncle, Todd Kott; uncle, Rick Kott; and cousin, Cody Kott.

Memorial services will be conducted at 1:30 PM, Friday, May 22, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church Manistee, 420 Oak St, Manistee, MI 49660, with Pastor Dennis Rahn presiding. The family will receive friends from 12:30 PM until time of service, a luncheon will follow the service at the church, and interment will take place in the Onekama Village Cemetery.

Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Service, is in charge of arrangements.
www.oakgrovefh.com