Eugene A. Otten of Barton entered the fullness of Eternal Life on June 11, 2016 at the age of 89. Beloved husband of the late Susan (nee Bumiller) for 54 years. Cherished father of Henry (Barbara) of Brookfield and Lynda of Manitowoc; a deeply loving grandfather of Dr. Sarah Stauder (Erich), Nick, Elise Otten, Sophia, Emma and Clara Dramm and fond brother of Rose Hunt.
He was preceded in death by his parents Anthony and Celia Otten, his brothers Hugh, Sylvester and Leo and his sisters Mary King and Lucille Daniels.
Gene owned and operated Otten’s Food Market for over 50 years, serving customers in the Barton area. He loved his work and always made sure the people of Barton were taken care of.
He will be remembered for his integrity, kindness, generosity and strong work ethic. He would always take care of anyone in need. He was respected and admired by all.
Gene’s love for people of all walks of life was born in his unyielding faith in God. He was a faithful Catholic and practiced his religion with devotion and good works. Gene served as a commentator, officer in the St. Joseph Society, Holy Name Society and Knights of Columbus (4th Degree). He was also president of Puppyland for many years.
Gene proudly served his country during WWII in the U.S. Army in the 1st Calvary Division and was involved in the invasion of Hiroshima. His favorite activities were spending time with family and friends, reading, fishing, swimming and taking long walks.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, June 20, 2016 at 5:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Visitation will be Monday at the church from 12 noon until 4:45 p.m. Interment will be private at the Old St. Mary’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers expressions of condolence may be made to St. Mary’s Church or Puppyland.
A heartfelt thanks to Dr. Robert Gibson and staff, the staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Meals on Wheels and the West Bend Senior Center for their loving care, compassion and expertise.
Gene was an exemplary model of how to live a good Christian life. He will continue to live on through the lives of those blessed by his good will and inspiration. Dad, you will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.
The Schmidt Funeral Home in West Bend is serving the family.
Online guestbook and condolences are available at www.schmidtfuneralhome.com