Leo Otto

Leo E. Otto was called home by his heavenly Father on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at the age of 74, after a long battle with many health challenges—all of which he faced with honor and without complaint.

He was born on July 2, 1950, to the late John and Betty (Palmer) Otto. On August 12, 1972, he married Pamela (Zill) Otto, who survives him.

Leo is also survived by his children, Aimee Goree, Tim (Chelley) Otto, and Emily (Tom) Christensen; his grandchildren, Gavin Otto (Harmony Shagene), Sofey Goree, Eliot Goree, Langston Otto, Louise Goree, Uriah Goree, and Tess Otto; his brothers, John Otto and Jerry (Cheryl) Otto; and his brother-in-law, Larry (Lorraine) Desbrough. He is also remembered by many nieces and nephews, extended family, and dear lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Betty Otto; his mother- and father-in-law, Ed and Helen Zill; his sister, Connie Desbrough; his brother-in-law, Steven Zill; and his sister-in-law, Ronica Otto.

Leo had a lifelong passion for cars, dedicating his adult years to racing, restoring, and showing them. As an auto body mechanic, he provided the same high-quality craftsmanship to his clients as he did for his own vehicles. A loyal and devoted friend, he maintained lifelong friendships while also welcoming new ones along the way. He also had a deep love for dogs, sharing his life with many “best friends” over the years.

The family would also like to express our sincere gratitude to the wonderful staff in the Michigan Medicine Medical Intensive Care Unit. Every person there provided exemplary care, not only attending to Leo’s medical needs but also listening with compassion to the wishes of our family. While some of those wishes were ultimately not possible, the team worked tirelessly to honor them in every way they could.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 420 W. Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, with Pastor Ted Hopkins officiating. The service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 28,, followed by a light lunch in the fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church and School or to the Trisomy 18 Foundation (trisomy18.org/donate) in honor of his granddaughter, Louise.

Memories and condolences may be shared at muehligannarbor.com.