Mary L. Otte

Please register at the link below to view the funeral service for Mary Otte.

https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=170c8542-2c6b-4890-86a3-c02f7b3bbb2d

Mary Louise Otte, born on March 26, 1938, in Freeport, Illinois, passed away at her home on February 18, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin. She was 86 years old.

Mary was the beloved daughter of Lloyd and Hulda (Muegge) Otte of Lena, IL. She was the Valedictorian of her class, graduating in 1956 from Lena High School. Mary continued her education at Madison Business College, graduating in August 1960.

Mary dedicated 38 years of her life to Wisconsin Power and Light, where she began as a steno receptionist and diligently worked her way up to the position of Executive Assistant. She retired in 1998.

Mary was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Madison and Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Lena. For many years, she served as the organist at St. John’s.

Mary’s commitment to service extended beyond her church. She volunteered at Friends of Alicia Ashman Library and Oakwood Village Retirement Community, where her warm spirit and kindness enriched the lives of those around her.

An avid lover of life, Mary enjoyed concerts, theater, travel, reading, and cheering on her Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers. She was a passionate collector of 1200 giraffes, receiving them as cherished gifts from friends and family over the years. Whether working on word puzzles or spending quality time with loved ones, Mary always found joy in the little things, sharing laughter and love with those fortunate enough to know her.

Mary Lou will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by many cousins and was preceded in death by her parents.

A visitation will be held prior to the funeral service on March 8, 2025, beginning at 10 AM, at Cress Funeral Service, located at 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, WI. The funeral service will commence at 10:30 AM with a lunch reception following the service. Burial and graveside service will take place at 3 PM at Lena Burial Park in Lena, IL. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her memory, reflecting the love and light she brought into our lives.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434