Gregory L. Cotovsky, age 49, passed away unexpectedly on February 5, 2026 at the Rochelle Community Hospital. He was born on November 16, 1976 in Chicago, IL the son of David and Sandra (Galati) Cotovsky. Greg married the love of his life, Jennifer Lee Berkley on October 13, 2007 in Oregon, IL. They brought their beautiful son, Gregory Lawrence Cotovsky, II into the world on September 2, 2012. Greg worked tirelessly as a Drug and Addictions Counselor before he lovingly stepped into the role of caretaker for their son. Greg loved nothing more than spending time with his family, especially out in nature and particularly in his yard, which he took a lot of pride in. He was passionate about plants, nature and the outdoors. He loved cooking for his family, camping, hiking, long walks, particularly at sunset, and observing animals and birds. Greg was often found sitting outdoors, soaking up the sun, no matter how chilly the weather may have been. An avid lover of the outdoors, he could be seen riding his scooter around town and through the farmlands. The pet parent to many animals over the years, Greg could not get enough of his favorite dog, Malakai, and most recently, his cat, Tilton. He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Faitha Little, Irving Cotovsky, and Florine Alexander; cousin, JB Ernst; and mother-in-law, Sharon Berkley.

Survived by his wife, Jennifer, and son, Gregory Cotovsky II; his father, David Cotovsky and mother, Sandra Cotovsky; brother, Mike (Catherine) Cotovsky; sister, Laura (Billy) Wlodarczyk, 3 nieces: Caroline, Claire, and Grace Cotovsky; father-in-law, Bob (Jan) Berkley; 3 in-laws: Rob (Kim) Berkley, Cindy (Jake) Mooney, and Danny Berkley and their children: Brayden, Colsen, Aubrey, Daxen, Blake, Sullivan, and Noelle.

Visitation will be from 2- 5 PM on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at the Unger Horner Funeral Home, 400 N 6th St., Rochelle. Funeral will be at 10:30 AM on Monday at the Unger Horner Funeral Home with Pastor Joy Alsop officiating. Burial will follow at the Lawnridge Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please donate funds to "The Gregory Cotovsky College Fund”.  Guest book at www.UngerHorner.com