I could not have said it better.

Retired with 21yrs, 
SGT Strauss
Enlisted 3/11/1997-9/11/2018

Heather,I was so shocked and saddened when CSM Michael White called to tell me about this terrible accident. To think we saw you both mere days before at BG Estrada's promotion. I wish I spent more time chatting then. It's an unfortunate example that we never consider what might happen, always assuming we'll catch up next time. Your husband was a great leader of soldiers and he made a huge impact on the 126 and the 125. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Colonel Clark and Shara Barrett

Jason,Thank you for such a heartfelt post. It has been so wonderful to hear the memories of who my dad was to others as there were so many aspects of his life that I wasn't able to experience. Blessings in your continued career and know that Dad is proud of you!Sarah

Dear Debbie, Sharon, Jimmie, Heather, daughters, Grandchildren, I think you all know what Les meant to me. He was such a great cousin. He would visit us in Orlando or we'd meet for a drink! I cannot express the hurt I feel for you all, and the hurt I feel in my heart for this great loss. What a beautiful person Les was, a true treasure of a man. Someone said that he always had a twinkle in his eye and a smile for everyone. So true, & I loved his little crooked smile - it was so endearing! There was only love in his heart for life, people, his Country and his special family, There's never been a more special man and he will be a hard act to follow if anyone tries. My heart is torn open and I feel an empty space for my dear sweet cousin. God be with you all forever and know that he is fighting for our God now. What he's accomplished in his short life will go on and on and have a big impact on everyone forever...

Jason - your words express perfectly what CSM hoped to accomplish not only in his military career but his day-to-day life. Thank you for your willingness to share. It's amazing to hear all of the incredible stories.

I am very sorry to hear about the passing of CSM Ott. He has a positive impact on thousands of soldiers all over the State of Michigan. I had the privilege of serving with CSM Ott as his driver in the summer of 2007. That year we had three annual training's in preparation of our upcoming deployment to Iraq. You learn some amazing things as a Sergeant Major's Driver. We cruised the trails of Camp Grayling has he showed me that summer what it meant to be a soldier and a leader. Before that time in my life, I was going to serve my six year contract and get out. He showed me a different path. A path that gave me a career. He said "Specialist Arrell, make the most out of this career. You are already a good troop, but its up to you to be a great leader." These words have stuck with me over the course of an 11 year career and counting. Without those lessons learned in the summer of 2007 who knows where I would be. CSM Ott was not just any Sergeant Major, he was The Sergeant Major. Everything you look for in a boss, leader, and friend. He never lost his cool and subordinates, regardless of the mission, knew that everything was going to be ok. He kept his cool no matter what. He did not have to promise rewards, or get out the beating stick to get his soldier to work. We believed in him. It was very easy to do. Every word that he spoke you believed. We worked hard for him out of respect, because CSM Ott would work just as hard as his soldiers and for his soldiers. I do not know if I have become the great leader that Lester is, but I know that is where I want to be. His impression on me and many other young leaders will be long lasting and the lessons learned gave me a new approach to life. Live it to the fullest and make the most out of every opportunity. I will miss you deeply Sergeant Major. Thank you for your advice and wisdom. From my family to yours. If there is ever anything you need Heather, simply ask.

A May God's Angels Watch Over You Memorial Arrangement was sent on April 25, 2016
 Our lives are forever changed for the better by your friendship. See you on the other side. 
Pablo & Roberta Estrada

A Peace Lily in Decorative Planter was ordered on April 25, 2016

I am still at a loss over the passing of Lester. We served together in Iraq. He was a great Soldier and mentor to other Soldiers. I will always remember him as a great friend. My deepest condolences to his family. Rene HinojosaMAJ, USA (Ret.)

I heard Lester say that when he would wake up in the morning he would ask himself the question, What good can I do for someone today? It was a beautiful sentiment, and I know he meant it. I've thought of that comment often. He will be missed by those who love him as long as we walk the face of the earth. Offering sympathy, thoughts and prayers to Les's family, his children, siblings and his beloved Heather.

To Debbie and her whole family. I did not know your brother, Lester but if he was anything like you...he was a pretty amazing guy. I want to say I am so sorry for yours and your whole family's loss. My prayers for all of you are that may our Father's infinite love, peace and comfort bring much healing in your lives and may you have unending wonderful memories of him. Much love, Tammy

Sincere condolences to Les' family. I worked with him at GRPS - PPI programs. He was a fun person, enjoyed teaching the little children and loved his daughters. May he rest in peace. Amen

Dear Heather, Alexa and family, I'm terribly sorry for your loss. I was shocked to hear of his passing. He was always so kind to me whenever he was outside working on his motorcycle and I'd pass by your house going out for my run. He spent some time talking to my son about the Army too. While Lester is in the most beautiful place we could ever imagine, it doesn't make it any easier for loved ones left behind. Please know that you all will be in my prayers daily. Laurie (and Randy) Robinson

Dear Heather, I have no words to adequately express my feelings of my sense of loss for you, your children and family, and to all our band of brothers who loved, admired, and held him in the highest esteem! He was a great soldier and surely the great American we all aspire to be. Outstanding mentor, teacher, leader, and friend to so many including my son Eric. We have enjoyed so many pleasant times with him and you and want to continue to have you at our gatherings. You are in our prayers. Affectionately, Robert C. Deuker LTC AUS (Ret)

I worked with Les at both GRPS and Michigan National Guard. I will miss his wisdom and guidance. He was a very good friend. My wife and I send our condolences to his family.

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Lester Charles Ott

11 juillet 1952 – 20 avril 2016

Cook Funeral and Cremation Services

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