Kenneth Dean Otterline

Ken enlisted in the U.S. Army in February of 1958 and went on to serve with steadfast dedication for 26 years. Over the course of his military career, he earned numerous achievement medals, including the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Silver and 3 Bronze Service Stars, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal from his time in Korea, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm, and the Bronze Star Medal. He attained the rank of Sergeant First Class and retired in 1984 while stationed at Fort Hood, Texas—closing a chapter defined by duty, endurance, and the kind of hard work that marked every season of his life. After retiring from the Army, Ken continued to work diligently in several roles, including nine years driving a school bus for Copperas Cove Independent School District.

On December 22nd in 1961, Ken married his high school sweetheart, Paulette Allbright. They shared 64 years of marriage and built a life rooted in commitment and care. Together, they raised three children: Kenneth Jr., Melissa, and Ronald. Ken was devoted to his family, offering steady presence and support that could be relied upon without question.

Ken was an avid hunter and found deep enjoyment in the outdoors. He also loved animals, especially his dogs, and that affection reflected the quiet warmth he carried into everyday life.

Ken is survived by his loving wife, Paulette; children Kenneth Otterline Jr. and wife Catherine, Melissa Otterline, and Ronald Otterline and wife Kirsten; grandchildren Jeremy Otterline, Kristofer Otterline and wife Brandi, Joshua Otterline and wife Amy, Jerik Otterline and wife Lisa, Kieran Carroll and wife Leslie, Kaley Delgado and husband Bryan, Peighton Brookshire, Jordan Otterline, and Breanna Otterline; and great grandchildren Kristofer Otterline Jr., Khali Otterline, Melissa Otterline, Aiden Otterline, Persephone Otterline, Addilyn Otterline, Lillian Otterline, Noah Cochran, Sydney Carroll, Kieran Carroll Jr., and Ellary Delgado.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1pm on Wednesday April 22nd at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas.