KENNETH J. OTTO

April 10, 1924 – April 3, 2014

Kenneth J. Otto, age 89, passed away from heart failure on Thursday, April 3, 2014 at his home in Bartow.

Born April 10, 1924 in Sheboygan, WI, he was the son of the late Charles and Alma Otto. Ken was a veteran of WWII, serving in the U.S. Army Air Forces. Mr. Otto participated in over 35 bombing missions in the European Theatre. Along with 3 Bronze Battle Stars, he was notably awarded the Air Medal and Distinguished Flying Cross for his service. After the war, Ken worked as a custom meat cutter in Wisconsin for many years.

He was active in many organizations including the American Legion Post #20 in Sheboygan and Post #8 in Winter Haven, the 95th Bomb Group, the Amalgamated Meat Cutters and Butchers Workman union in Milwaukee, and the Walk to Emmaus Community. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Bartow.

Ken is survived by his wife Rose Blount of Bartow, his step children: Rebecca Pischke of Bartow, David L. Blount (Beverly) of Winter Haven, Steven R. Blount (Lena) of Lakeland, his step grandchildren: Lynnette Burke (Craig) of Bartow, Jeannine Birdslow of Lakeland, Tracy W. Birdslow of Sandy Creek, NY, Stewart Blount of Winter Haven, Sean M. Blount of Clearwater, and numerous step great-grandchildren.

The Family will receive friends Monday April 7, 2014 from Noon to 1:00 pm at First United Methodist Church, 310 S Broadway in Bartow, FL.

A memorial service will follow Monday at 1:00 pm at the First United Methodist Church. In lieu flowers memorials can be given to Cornerstone Hospice or the Walk to Emmaus Community. Condolences at www.WhiddenMcLeanfuneralhome.com

Ledger, The (Lakeland, FL) - Sunday, April 6, 2014