James Earl Otto

Jim was born on May 16, 1941 in Traverse City, the son of Louis and Elsie (Franks) Otto. From the start, he was a hard worker. If he didn’t know how to do something that needed to get done, he would figure it out. As a jack of all trades, he could do anything he set out to do. In the 1950’s, Jim met Patricia Couturier. The moment they met, Pat knew she would marry him some day. Jim later proposed and the two were wed on November 19, 1960. Jim worked his whole life in the sheet metal trade, and plumbing and heating. He was a wonderful husband and father; very caring and often would surprise his wife with new projects. There was always plenty of love to go around the Otto house. Jim’s patience and strength was made obvious when Pat became ill. He never left her side, taking her to doctor appointments, turning away company when necessary, and greeting them warmly when possible. Jim was always busy, tinkering in the garage, playing guitar, taking care of the yard, or just relaxing at home listening to the police scanner.

Jim is survived by his wife, Patricia Otto; children, James Otto, Jackie (Todd) Trauba, Edith Reamer, Pam (Joe) Longton, Mike Otto, and Michelle Egeler; grandchildren, Lou, Katie, Nichole, Brianna, Amy, Betsy, Brandan, and Holly; and 7 great grandchildren.

Jim’s parents preceded him in death as well as his daughter, Kim Otto; brothers, Wayne and Chuck; and sister, Jeanie.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 27, 2015 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with his funeral starting at 1 p.m. at Covell Funeral Home in Traverse City.

Please share your fond memories and condolences at www.CovellFuneralHomes.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Covell Funeral Home of Traverse City.