1940-2026
John A. Otto, 85, of Galva, KS, passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at his home.
John Arthur Otto was born on Saturday, July 6, 1940, at the family home in Aurora, Hamilton County, Nebraska, to Harley Clifford and Lois Josephine (Nelson) Otto, the fifth of nine sons.
At age 4, the family moved to Hastings, Nebraska. John attended Hastings Public Schools and graduated from Phillips (Nebraska) School in 1959. He worked a variety of jobs including Goble and Otto Construction, Fred Green Construction, Western Land Roller, Hastings Industries, Roller Heaven Skating Rink, Farmland Coop, Hesston Corp., and Viega Plastics.
Mr. Otto is preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, Yale W., Lyle E., Gene H., Kent N., and Earl C. Otto.
He is survived by one daughter, Lori (Jeff) Keeler of Glenvil, NE; three sons, Steven Otto of Hastings, NE, David (Kerri) Otto of Hickman, NE, Kent (Kelsey) Otto of Galva, KS; three brothers, Gary L. Otto of Oakland, NE, Lynn S. Otto of Arapahoe, NE, and Alan W. (Karen) Otto of Moreno Valley, CA; ten grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Olive.
The funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM, Friday, May 22, 2026, at Stockham Family Funeral Home, McPherson, with Pastor Steve Hodgson officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00 PM (noon) until service time on Friday. Burial will follow the service at Empire Cemetery, Galva.
Memorials are suggested to the Galva Fire Department, the National Rifle Association, or to a family member in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.
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