Keith Otto

Winchendon - Keith Wayne Otto, passed away on September 15, 2023, at the Lutheran Rehabilitation Skilled Care Center in Worcester, MA.  He was 89 years old. 

Keith was born November 25, 1933, to Alfred and Irene (Voecks) Otto in Pierce, Nebraska.  He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith at Zion Lutheran Church in Pierce.

Keith graduated from Pierce High School in 1951.  He attended the University of Nebraska for two years prior to enlisting in the US Air Force.  After basic training he was sent to an intensive Russian language course and once completed, he was ordered to the Army Language School in Monterey, CA.  After graduation he was sent to Air Force Intelligence Headquarters at Shiroi AFB, Japan.  Following that assignment, he spent two years in South Korea.  Following his service in the Air Force, he attended the University of Washington where he received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Korean Studies.  He then attended Harvard University where he received his Masters and PhD.  He was awarded the coveted Fulbright Scholarship to Korea and spent the following year in Seoul, Korea in the Embassy Complex.

Upon his return to the states, Keith accepted a teaching position at a private prep school in Winchendon, MA.  He taught history and English and was Assistant Headmaster.  As a parting gift, the school presented him with an all-expense paid trip for one week to each of the following places:  Taipei, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo, and Honolulu.  After retiring from teaching, he opened Mr. Otto’s Flower and Gift shop in Winchendon until he retired at the age of 71.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Sidney and Warren.  He is survived by three sisters, Ilene Fiedler, Puyallup, WA; Roene (Larry) Kruckenberg, Cheyenne, WY; Sharylene (Ron) Riedel, Pierce, NE, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

In his own words, Keith stated he had “an exciting, fascinating, rewarding and fun-filled life and was extremely blessed.”

A memorial Service will be held on Thursday, September 28, 2023 at 7:00 pm at the Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1 Hager Park Rd., Westminster, MA  01473

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Keith’s memory to Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1 Hager Park Rd., Westminster, MA  01473.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.stone-ladeau.com.

Stone Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central St., Winche3ndon is assissting with arrangements.  Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, Melissa A. McQuaid, funeral directors.