Theodore "Ted" J. Otto

Theodore “Ted” J. Otto

Of Grafton, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 5, 2024, at the age of 84 years. He was born on January 16, 1940, in Oshkosh, WI, to the late Ernst and the late Lauretta (nee Kohls) Otto.

Ted attended Trinity Lutheran Grade School in Oshkosh, as well as Oshkosh High School, before earning his Bachelor and Master degrees in Mechanical Engineering from MSOE and UW-Madison.

On July 21, 1962 Ted married the love of his life, Susan Rhyner, beginning a devoted 62 year marriage. Together they were blessed with three sons: Thomas, Timothy and Kurt. Ted’s life was deeply rooted in love for his faith, family and his work.

Ted began his professional career at Sangamo Electric in Springfield, IL in 1962. From there he went to work for Louis Allis in Milwaukee, WI, and then to Orion Corporation in 1973. He would spend most of his career at Orion as Chief Engineer, retiring in 2003.

Ted had a passion for baseball that was derived from playing American Legion Ball as a teenager. His passion continued as he became an umpire for High School ball and Little League games, often sharing the field with his son, Tom. While umpiring for Little League he donated all his earnings back to the league. In Retirement Ted worked as an usher for the Milwaukee Brewers for 18 seasons. He made some fast friendships with the Brewers TV crew. In retirement he played Over 55 Baseball League in Grafton well into his 70’s.

He was a dedicated member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grafton, WI. Ted ushered for many years, served on the St. Paul School Board, and was an enthusiastic member of the church’s Dart Ball Team. His involvement in the community extended to working at the Grafton voting polls and volunteering at the Family Sharing Food Pantry.

Ted is survived by his beloved wife, Susan, his loving sons: Thomas (Stephanie Schuelke), Timothy (Candace) and Kurt (Kristi); his cherished grandchildren: Zachary, Jonathan, Jacob, Michael (girlfriend Bridget), and Cady.

He is preceded in death by his dear cousin, James Rutz and his forever friend, Jim Steinke.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 12 Noon, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 701 Washington St. (HWY 60), Grafton. Inurnment will take place at the church cemetery. A visitation will take place, on Saturday, at the church, from 10:00 AM until 11:45 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to EGFT (St. Paul Lutheran School Building Fund).

Ted’s family and friends will forever remember his kindness, wisdom and unwavering faith.