Obituary: John S. Ott (Otfinoski), 93, of Middletown

From Biega Funeral Home

John S. Ott (Otfinoski), 93, of Middletown, Connecticut passed away peacefully on October 4, 2016. He was born October 22, 1922 on his family’s dairy farm on Newfield Street in Middletown, the son of Jacob and Agatha (Grzech) Otfinoski. He attended local schools.

As a youngster he worked on his family farm, raised chickens, sold eggs and ice. For a short time, he worked at Pratt and Whitney before joining the army during World War II and serving in the Army Air Corp.

After the war, he miraculously survived polio. In 1950, he married the love of his life, Cecilia and they proceeded to make their home in Middletown. Soon after, he opened the J. S. Ott Insurance Agency, which he ran for more than 40 years before retiring.

Following retirement, he designed, built and operated Middletown’s first golf course, Miner Hills Golf Course. In addition, he was active in community organizations such as American Legion Post 75 (serving as commander), an original member of St Pius X Church in Middletown, and a member of the St. Kazimirez Society of the Polish National Home.

John will always be remembered for his love of baseball and was a pitcher for the Middletown Giants after WW II.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Cecilia (Straceski). His sons John and his wife Debra; William E and girlfriend Mary Ellen Link, all of Middletown as well as a daughter Joy Otfinoski Mouland and husband John of Rocky Hill. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Craig (wife Katie), Courtney, John Jerid (wife Ivy), Jordan (wife Emilia), Garett (wife Celeste), Jennifer and Janine along with four great grandchildren: Chester, Petra, Jade and Adeline.

He was predeceased by his parents and brothers Anthony, Peter, Walter, Lawrence, Joseph and sister Sophie (Sally). He is survived by his sister in law Helen Otfinoski and many nieces and nephews.

His Funeral Liturgy will be held on Friday (Oct 7th) at 10 a.m. at St. Pius X Church, 310 Westfield St, Middletown. Burial, with military honors, will be held at the State Veterans’ Cemetery, Middletown. Those who wish may send memorial contributions to Xavier High School, 181 Randolph Rd, Middletown, CT 06457 or to Mercy High School, 1740 Randolph Rd., Middletown, CT 06457.

To leave online condolences, visit Biega Funeral Home here.