In 1931, he received his AB degree in mathematics from Friends University where he is listed as a distinguished alumnus.
During World War II, Bottom was assigned to the Signal Corps Engineering Laboratory where he spent most of his time repairing radios.
He was recognized for his efforts by being awarded the Certificate of Service by the Signal Corps Engineering Laboratory.
It was during his military service that Bottom gained experience in quartz crystals which set the path for his physics career.
Bottom was a deeply religious man and spent his free time translating Bible verses and working as a volunteer at rehabilitation clinics.