Notz was born into a wealthy family in 1925; his father owned the top steel-producing firm in Switzerland. He was a first-rate student at MIT, one of the best universities worldwide, where he graduated with honours. Notz then managed a wide variety of businesses, interests spanning the Notz name and beyond.

Fashionable Notz was the epitome of jet set—but despite his international lifestyle and multiple homes he favoured life in Gsteig, where he enjoyed skiing and other mountain activities. A self-described “bon vivant”, Notz drew many celebrity friends to the Saanenland, including Gunther Sachs and Brigitte Bardot.

Those who knew Notz say he was in love with love. Married four times, he is survived by his former wives, including local resident Brigitta Notz, and five children.