John Richard Otto

John was dedicated to his family and his garden and had a passion for liberal principles.

He was the son of Michael and Mary Otto, Italian immigrants in Jersey City.

He served in the Air Force during World War II working to transport and train troops.

After the war, he earned his engineering degree from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater where he met his wife, Phyllis. The couple married in 1954 and recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

John worked for his entire career at the Westinghouse Meter Division in Raleigh. After his retirement, he enjoyed gardening, travel and the friendship of his neighbors.

He is survived by his wife, Phyllis; his sister Celeste Lenzo of Toms River, NJ; and two daughters, Mary Otto (Jeffrey) of Washington, DC; and Elaine Burgwyn-Bailes (Mark) of Chapel Hill; as well as two grandchildren, Hannah Burgwyn of Chicago, IL and Harry Frey of Washington, DC; and beloved nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 2718 Overbrook Drive, Raleigh, NC 27608.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in John’s memory to Street Sense, a newspaper produced and sold by the homeless, 1317 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20005.

Condolences may be sent to www.BrownWynne.com