William Francis Ott

William Francis Ott, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away on December 16, 2023. Born on February 20, 1933, in St. Louis, Missouri, William's journey through life was one marked by love, dedication, and a passion for a wide range of pursuits.

William will always be remembered for his warm and inviting presence. He had an uncanny ability to make anyone feel like they had known him for a lifetime with his gentle demeanor and compassionate nature. Throughout his life, he formed deep connections with those around him and cherished the relationships he cultivated.

A man of integrity and courage, William served his country as a Veteran of the United States Army. His commitment to protecting the freedoms we hold dear was unwavering. His service to the nation reflects his selflessness and bravery.

Beyond his military career, William had many interests that brought joy to his life. An avid fisherman, he found solace in the tranquility of nature's waters. With each cast of the line and each catch reeled in, William experienced a sense of fulfillment that only fellow fishing enthusiasts can truly understand. In addition to fishing, he also had a keen eye for photography and captured countless memories through his lens.

Sports played an important role in William's life as well. He found immense pleasure in the comradery of playing golf with friends and family, offering moments of relaxation and friendly competition. Bowling was another activity that brought him joy, again a chance to enjoy companionship along with competition.

William also enjoyed spending time and finding peace in the community of his church, Fenton United Methodist Church.

William's passing leaves behind a void that will be deeply felt by all who knew him. He is preceded in death by his devoted wife Shirley Ott (nee Thomas), who stood by his side through thick and thin with unwavering love and support. He is survived by his children, William Jr., Patricia, and Andrew who carry the legacy of their father forward, cherishing the memories they shared and the lessons he taught. His stepchildren, John Laster, Ruth Hamilton, Rhonda Kotva, and Judy Laster, were embraced as his own and will forever hold him in their hearts. His brother Mel (Pat) Ott provided a steadfast presence throughout the years, sharing both laughter and tears. William will also be missed by other surviving members of his family such as grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and many friends.

Family meant the world to William, and his late parents Francis Ott and Clara Ott (nee Merkert) were a foundational pillar of his life. Their influence shaped him into the exceptional individual he became. 

As we pay our respects to William's life, we invite all those who knew him to join us for the funeral services. Visitation will be held on December 22, 2023, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at John L. Ziegenhein and Sons Funeral Homes - South County Chapel located at 4830 Lemay Ferry Rd in St. Louis, Missouri. The funeral service will follow at 11:15 AM at the same location. Finally, William will be laid to rest with full military honors at Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery on December 22, 2023, at 12:30 PM. The cemetery is located at 2900 Sheridan Rd in St. Louis.

Today, as we bid farewell to William Francis Ott, we extend our heartfelt condolences to all his family members and friends who feel the weight of this loss deeply. May we find solace in knowing that William's spirit will live on through cherished memories held dear by those fortunate enough to have known him. In celebrating his remarkable life journey, let us also find inspiration in his unwavering love for those around him and strive to emulate his kindness and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Fenton United Methodist Church or American Heart Association.