Otto J. Quasthoff

Born in Chicago in 1946, Otto graduated from Maine West High School in 1965. Otto married the love of his life, Kathleen Fitzgibbons in 1980, and together, they had three sons. Otto is survived by Kathy and their three sons, Brendan, Byron (Krystle), and Bryan (Clare) as well as his grandchildren, Maci, Cole, Caitlin, Keira, Colette, and Caroline.

Otto dedicated nearly 40 years to the field of operating engineering, ultimately retiring from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago. Throughout his career, he also devoted more than 20 years to teaching at Oakton Community College, where he shared his expertise in HVAC and high- and low-pressure boiler systems with generations of students. A lifelong advocate for his profession, Otto was a longtime member of the National Association of Power Engineers (NAPE), where he continued to share his knowledge, experience, and passion for industry. His commitment to teaching and mentoring others was an important part of the legacy he leaves behind.

Otto had a lifelong passion for gardening and greenery, a love that was deeply rooted in his family history. He spent his childhood growing up in a greenhouse. His grandfather, father and uncle founded Quasthhoff’s flowers in the early 1900’s.

Otto was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who took great pride in his family. Whether it be camping with his sons and Troop 160 or taking their annual summer road trips across the country in his camper, he cherished every moment together. Somehow, he never missed a ball game, birthday, or anniversary. He was a loyal Green Bay Packers and Chicago White Sox fan. He truly loved the outdoors and the mountains out west.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner Street, Des Plaines. Family and friends are asked to meet at the funeral home at 9:00 AM on Friday, October 2, 2026, before committal at All Saints Catholic Cemetery.