Jan. 1, 1932 – Jan. 1, 2021
On January 1, 2021, David J. Otto of St. Albert passed away at the age of 89, after a brief illness with the Covid-19 virus. Jan. 1 was also David’s birthdate, in 1932.
David spent only a short time at the Youville Home LTC Centre, but the family is deeply grateful for the extraordinary and compassionate care he received there in his final days. Before that, David spent a number of years at his “home” with the staff and residents of River Ridge. The family wishes to express their appreciation for the patient, kind and affectionate support he always enjoyed there as well.
David was an academic and a musician his whole life. He grew up in the US, completing much of his education at the U of M. He remained a fan of the Michigan sports teams to the end. He came to Canada to work at the University of Alberta and play in the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. He continued to teach, consult, and play his tuba well past the age when most men retire. He loved the outdoors and spent every summer hiking, leading many church youth groups on wilderness backpacking trips over the years. He saw a lot more of the world later in life, taking trips and cruises around the world with his wife.
David leaves to mourn his three children: Steve (Mary), Mike, and Susan; 4 grandchildren; and dear sister Carolyn Wilson. The extended family are physically far away in the US but always close in our hearts. David was predeceased by his parents, brother Harlan, and in 2014 by his wife of 61 years, Carol Otto.
At this time, with the pandemic restrictions, no funeral service is scheduled. Please check with any of David’s children for updates; it is the intention of the family to have something planned by the end of March, even if it is to take place a later date.
In lieu of donations or flowers, please support your local music community in David’s memory, in any way you can, especially during these difficult times.
To send expressions of sympathy or share memories, please visit https://www.dignitymemorial.com/en-ca.
