Harold E. Otto

Harold E. Otto, 85, of South Haven died on Saturday, March 9 at River Ridge Retirement Village in South Haven. Harold was born on September 1, 1927 in Leisure, MI to Frank and Margaret (McKeowen) Otto.  He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Roma Correll; his brother, Francis Otto; and a step-son, Kenneth Veenstra.

He was a graduate of South Haven High School and Allied Technical Institute.  He also served in the United States Army at the end of World War II.   Harold worked for many years as a manufacturing engineer and farmer until he began his own engineering business in 1978. 

Following his retirement, Harold spent countless hours restoring his antique cars, which included a 1929 Ford Model A, a 1934 Chevrolet Roadster, and a 1959 Ford Thunderbird.  He participated in the Bangor Cruise and was a member of several historical car clubs.  Harold loved to travel with his wife on the historic Delta Queen paddle-wheel steamboat exploring the entire Mississippi River on numerous cruises.

He was a faithful member of Hope Reformed Church where he served as a deacon on the consistory. 

Harold is survived by his wife of 40 years, Jean (Wierenga) Otto of South Haven, MI; sons Steven Otto and David (Bobbie) Otto of South Haven, MI; grandchildren Ryan (Emily) Otto and Erin (Matt Pielin – fiancée) Otto;  and great grandson, Noah, “his buddy”.

Visitation will be Tuesday, March 12^th at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home from 6 to 8 p.m.  Funeral Services will be Wednesday, March 13^th at Hope Reformed Church at 11 a.m. with Rev. Fritz Kruithof officiating.  Burial will take place at Lake View Cemetery.  

Memorials may be made to Hope Reformed Church or Hospice at Home.