Ronald Shuji Otani

Ron Otani, 71, was born on September 24, 1942 in San Mateo, CA and went to be with the Lord on December 31, 2013 after a long battle with Scleroderma, surrounded by the love and strength of his family at the Hinds Hospice Home in Fresno, CA. He was a resident of Merced for 32 years.

He was born in a Japanese internment camp during WWII and raised in Parlier, CA. Upon receiving his Business Administration degree from Fresno State University he enlisted in the National Guard and then became a banker for the remainder of his life.

Ron was active in his community and local church, serving on the boards of Merced Christian School, Alpha Pregnancy Center, Yosemite Church and member of Livingston Ag Boosters and Rotary Club. At church he served on the Finance committee, Benevolence, Food Pantry, volunteered at VBS in the summers with his grandchildren and enjoyed coaching Upwards basketball.

Ron is survived by his wife, Dena Otani; son, Lance Otani; daughters, Marlise Otani Cervantez and Ashley Otani; brother, Bob (Sachi) Otani and 6 grandchildren. He strongly loved his family, he will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Family and friends are invited to attend the service to celebrate Ron’s life on Saturday, January 11, 10am with reception to follow at Yosemite Church, 2230 E. Yosemite Ave., Merced, CA, 95340. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of Ron Otani to Hinds Hospice, 410 W. Main St., Merced, CA 95340.