KEITH OTTO

Keith David Otto, of Neenah, age 81, passed away Tuesday, October 14, 2014. He was born on June 5, 1933, in Neenah, to the late Dorothy and Edward Otto. Keith married Geraldine "Gerry" Koenig on February 15, 1958, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. While serving in the US Navy as a Gunfire Control Technician, Keith also earned his Neenah High School Diploma. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE). Keith was a Licensed Professional Engineer in Louisiana, Wisconsin, Oregon, Michigan, Minnesota, Arkansas, Illinois, and Georgia. Keith worked on the Thor and Titan missile/rocket projects early in his career at AC Sparkplug. His career continued to include positions at American Can Co, AL; Fischer & Porter Co. and Marathon Engineering, where he also served a 13 year term as President. Keith went on to work for James River Corporation, as Director Manufacturing Technology; and later co-founded Neenah Engineering Inc. where he continued working until May 2014. Keith was an active member of several technical societies, including ISA, TAPPI, IEE, IAAI, and IAEI. As long standing and current Corporation Board Member of Milwaukee School of Engineering, Keith received the Outstanding Alumni Award. Survivors include his wife Gerry; his two daughters: Kathy (Joe) Loftus, Menomonee Falls, WI, Karen (Mike) Born, Neenah, and three sons: Bruce (Pam) Otto, Neenah, Steven (Erika) Otto, Coronado, CA, and Scott Otto, Shoreview, MN; nine grandchildren: Brendon Otto, Steven Loftus, Christopher Otto, Eric Born, Kellina Mattson née Loftus, Ryan Born, Meghan Born, Zalen Otto, and Emily Otto; one great granddaughter: Sophia Otto; and one sister: Nancy Koepsel. As a child living in Neenah WI, Keith always hoped to live on Lake Winnebago. His early career moved the family to other states. After returning to Neenah, he designed and built their family home, with the help of his young children where he continued to enjoy his life. Keith was not only a loving husband and father, but also a life mentor for his children and grandchildren. He educated them with his words, and even more effectively through his actions. He will be truly missed, and will be constantly in our thoughts. Special thanks to the caregivers at St. Elizabeth's Hospital and Cherry Meadow Hospice for the special care given. A private family gathering will be held in Keith's honor.