Richard Herbert Otto

Richard "Dick" Herbert Otto, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026 in New Carlisle. Born on August 15, 1935 in Dayton, Richard lived a remarkable ninety years filled with dedication to family, service to his country, and a legacy of kindness and warmth.

Richard was the cherished son of Elmer Otto and Dorothy Chamberland, both of whom preceded him in death. He grew up in Dayton, surrounded by the values and traditions that would eventually become hallmarks of his own character. In 1958, he married the love of his life, Nancy Otto, with whom he shared many joyful years until her passing.

He was a proud and honorable veteran, having served in the United States Marine Corps. Richard’s time in the service was marked not only by his commitment to duty—where he achieved the rank of sergeant—but also by his musical talent, as he played the drums in the Marine Corps band. His sense of discipline and patriotism carried forward into every aspect of his life, earning the respect and admiration of all who knew him.

After his military service, Richard embarked on a long and successful career at General Motors. Upon retirement, he left behind a legacy of hard work and devotion to his colleagues and community.

Richard’s passions extended far beyond his professional life. He was an accomplished drummer and was known for his enduring love of Ohio State University sports. His Sunday mornings were often spent attending church, and he was a devoted member of Bethel Church of the Nazarene, where he contributed his time and energy to the children’s ministry. His faith and generosity touched countless lives, and his involvement in the church will be remembered fondly by many.

Above all, Richard’s family was the center of his world. He was warm and loving to every member of his family, nurturing strong bonds that spanned generations. He is survived by his three sons, Terry Harrold, Mark Otto, and Richard "Kurt" (Paula) Otto. He was also a devoted grandfather to Jason, Emily, Netasha, Whitney, Veronica, Amber, Sasha, Richard "Derek", Shanda, and Delmer, and a proud great-grandfather to Isaiah, Robbie, Rylie, Reece, Rory, Ranger, Emory, Vandal, Kinley, Aiden, Dawson, Autumn, Bryson, Liam, Connor, Brooke, Gabrielle, Greyson, Madison, and Avery. Richard’s network of love also included his sisters Marleen Kotsko and Roberta (Bill) Bias, as well as his sister-in-law Sandy Roberts.

He is reunited in peace with his loving wife Nancy, his daughter Michelle Ingle, and his parents.

Richard’s gentle spirit, steadfast love, and lively sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who were privileged to know him. His memory lives on in the families he guided and the countless lives he touched through his selflessness, service, and music.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at a visitation on Monday, August 10, 2026, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, North Dayton (4104 Needmore Rd, Dayton, OH 45424). A funeral service will follow at the same location at 1:30 p.m. Richard will be laid to rest at Woodland Cemetery (118 Woodland Avenue).

Richard Herbert Otto’s remarkable life reminds us of the importance of faith, family, service, and kindness. He will be forever cherished and remembered by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard's memory to Honor Flight Dayton.