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Robert Ott Obituary
Robert F. Ott, 88, of Allentown, passed away Saturday, March 3, in Lehigh Valley Hospital. He recently experienced the loss of his wife of 67 years, Sarah E. Sally (Plarr) Ott. Born in Allentown, he was a son of the late Harold J. and Mabel (Gaumer) Ott. He retired in 1985 as president and board chairman of Dorney Park, after 43 years of service. a 1936 alumnus of Allentown High School, he in 1939, received a Third Officers license upon graduating from Pennsylvania Nautical Schoolship, a Merchant Marine training facility. He retired from Merchant Marine service in 1945 as a World Two Coast Guard Veteran with a Lieutenant Commander rating. He was a past president of Pennsylvania Amusement Park Association, a past president and board member of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, past vice-president and board member of the Allentown-Lehigh County Tourist and Convention Bureau. He was a member of St. Johns Lutheran Church, Allentown, and served on its vestry. Active in Masonic affairs, he was a member and past master of Warren Lodge, F&AM, Belvidere, N.J. He was affiliated with Lehigh Consistory, Rajah Temple, Lehigh Shrine Club, and the High Twelve Club. He held memberships in Allentown Lions Club, Pennsylvania Schoolship Alumni Association, Travelers Protective Association, Lehigh County Historical Society, and the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. He was a volunteer with Visiting Nurses Association and Allentown Literacy Council. Survivors: Son, Robert S. Ott and his wife Cyndi; grandchildren, Robert S. II and his wife Lisa, Michael B. and his wife Cindy, Stephen J. and his wife Suzanne, and Jacqueline S., wife of John Mohr; stepgrandchildren, Michelle, wife of Darian Bidwell and Melissa Stettner; sisters, Elmira Matcha and Adele Murphy; six great-grandchildren, and five stepgreat-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Jacqueline S. Ott, brothers John, Richard, and Glenn Ott, and by a stepgrandson, Allan J. Komar. Services: 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 6, St. Johns Church, 32 South Fifth Street. No calling hours. www.trexlerfuneralhome.com Contributions: In lieu of flowers, to the National Heritage Foundation for the benefit of Sarah Plarr Ott Foundation c/o Trexler Funeral Home, 1625 Highland Street, Allentown 18102.
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert Ott
Larry Johnson
March 21, 2007
Bob will be missed by us all. He's one of the nicest guys I ever met and a great Lion.
Vickie Stauffer
March 12, 2007
Bob contacted me in the 90's when I wrote a story about Dorney's lost carousel. He invited me to lunch with Sally and himself and I will always regret not taking him up on that offer. I saw him at one of his history talks. He was so enjoyable to listen to and a great story teller. His long and loving marriage was inspiring to everyone. Those of us planning the National Carousel Convention were looking forward to asking him to speak at the convention in 2008 or 2009 when it comes to Allentown and Philly. He was quite a personality and will be greatly missed.
Debbie Krauss
March 11, 2007
Our deepest sympathy for the loss
of both your parents within a few
weeks of one another. Our son,
Andrew (who is now a 10th grader
at Dieruff H.S.) had the honor of
escorting your father, Mr. Ott, and
Mr. Wally Ely, throughout the halls
of Harrison-Morton Middle School a
few years ago during an Open House.
After speaking with all of them, I
don't know if Andrew was more
impressed with them or they were
more impressed with Andrew, but the
three of them certainly enjoyed
the time they spent together. And
Andrew was thrilled to have met a
Lehigh Valley legend (as was I) who
was such a down-to-earth gentleman.
His love for Harrison-Morton showed
through. Thank you for enriching
our son's life that night.
Sincerely,
Debbie & Jeff Krauss
& son, Andrew
Craig & Stephanie Cope
March 10, 2007
Dear Bobby & family , We want you to know your are in our thoughts and prayers. Craig had lost both of his parents this pass year. They died within days of each other.They were married 61 years and rarely apart.A friend of mine saw Aunt Sally at Luther Crest two weeks before she died. She asked her if she rememberd her and she did.She asked how we were doing and she shared the news about Craig's parents. She said I wish Bob and I would go like that. Well, her wish came true.They were not apart very long. May you be comforted knowing your parents are together. That is what gave us peace during this difficult time. Love, Craig & Stephanie Cope
Michael Crowther
March 9, 2007
I'm not sure that anyone has taught me more than "Uncle Bob" Ott. From the time he hired me as a 17-year old summer ride operator to the visit my family and I paid him at Luther Crest last year, he helped me learn how to choose my challenges and then how to conquer them.
At Christmas, he wrote to me that he and Sally wanted to make a trip to Indianapolis this year to visit us and the Indianapolis Zoo, where I work. "I'll be there," he said, "as long as Sally can make the trip."
Ken Vondriska
March 9, 2007
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the Ott family.
I met Mr. Ott during my tenure at Dorney Park, 1984-1988. We had wonderful conversations and his knowledge of the amusement industry was second to none. He will be greatly missed.
Joann Shellhammer
March 8, 2007
Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.
With Deepest Sympathy.
Shirley Offutt
March 8, 2007
To the Ott family,
It is no suprise that Bob followed Sally home. Sally was the love of his life. Bob was a true gentleman and a true gentle man. His wit always would uplift my spirits. I knew him as a nurse in his family doctor's office several years ago. Many, many years ago my family and mutual friends spent a weekend at "The Hermitage." What a beautiful and serene place. This is such a sad time for all who knew Bob because his presence will be missed. But we must rejoice that Bob and Sally will be spending Easter this year with our Risen Lord.
May God bless you and comfort you in this sad time.
Marjorie Stevens
March 8, 2007
Dear members of Bob Ott's Family,
The many good deeds done by Bob will live after him. As a supporter of reading, his efforts to connect children with books touched many people. As a member of the Parkland Community Library he supported library services as a part of his community. One of the special gifts given to the library is the picture of "Le Grande Carrousel" provided by Bob and his wife Sally. One of the humorous gifts from Bob is a book titled "All I Know About Carousels".
When you open the book there are all blank pages. So like Bob to not wish to "blow his own horn". He was a man that I am proud to have known and he will be remembered.
Rafael Fernandez
March 8, 2007
My condolences to the family & friends of someone who was involved in a indusrty whose motto is fun!! He leaves his mark in the Amusement Park indusrty
Member of American Coaster Enthusiats
Robert Ott attending Steven Plarr's wedding reception.
Margaret Plarr
March 7, 2007
What a tragic loss this is for me. I adored my Aunt Sally and Uncle Bob as a child and wish so much I had been able to spend more time with them. I admired my Uncle's outgoing and warm personality and I was so flattered that he expressed pride in my work in the Kentucky Racing industry. He always showed me love, care and affection.
The attached photo is a rare find in my father's collection of Uncle Bob as a young man. I'm sure there are more yet to be discovered. It is of my Uncle Bob at Sally's brother Steve's wedding reception taken at or before 1950. From left to right, Bob Ott, Jean Plarr, Steven Plarr, Wiltracy Plarr.
Best wishes to the Ott family.
Sue Nichols
March 7, 2007
I am just heartbroken that Bob left us too, but I am happy for him to be with Sally. He must have missed her terribly. I am happy to have known them both.
Robert Krasinski
March 7, 2007
Oh no. I can't believe Bob has left us, too. We just got over Sally and now him, too. I am so glad I met him twice, at Dorney Park and at the Helfrich Springs mill. I wish I would have had a little more time with him. He was the history of Dorney Park over the past few decades. I will miss Bob terribly and will think of him when I ride the Zephyr at Dorney Park. Dorney needs to erect a memorial in their honor for the years of service the Ott's gave Dorney Park. A final salute to you, Mr. Ott for the memories you gave me and countless others at Dorney Park. I miss the old Dorney Park of the early 80's before the 1983 fire but times change. Now I realize if it wasn't for Cedar Fair, Dorney Park would have fallen apart. It might have closed and the Valley would have lost it's major amusement park. A lot of other small family run parks closed forever when the owner passed. May you rest in peace Bob Ott. Your friend and Dorney Park fan, Robert
CATHY KAVOUNAS
March 7, 2007
A sad farewell to Uncle Bob who was always so sweet to me. I will miss getting his phone calls, not only wishing, but singing Happy Birthday to me, followed up with a card addressed to Cathy Plarr Kavounas. (He always felt I should include my maiden name on my business cards.)
Uncle Bob was always an upbeat, positive, warm person whose sense of humor was always refreshing. Although he suffered tragedies in his life, he did not let them dampen his lust for life. If there ever was a people-person, it was Bob Ott.
He shared with me several times his plans for his “grand finale.. I’m sorry I couldn’t be there because I am in Florida. Fireworks at a funeral?? Now that’s
the amusement park spirit! God bless you, Uncle Bob, as you join Aunt Sarah and Cousin Jackie in heaven.
With love,
Cathy & Nick Kavounas
Rev. Cliff Herring
March 6, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Bob and Sally Ott. I met and spoke with Bob on several occasions as a member of ACE (American Coaster Enthusiasts). Bob was a true gentleman and friend. He and Sally have blessed us in the Lehigh Valley through their beloved Dorney Park. They allowed us to have joy-filled memories whenever we visited the park or spoke to them about the park. Thank You for all that you shared with us! May God cradle them in his eternal care... and allow them to ride that Heavenly carousel together!
Stan and Marcia Parenti and Family
March 6, 2007
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. With Our Deepest Sympathy -
Joan Walters
March 6, 2007
Bob and family, Your father has touched many, many, many, lives. My father-in-law, Ed Walters Sr, not only worked for him over the years at Dorney Park but became a very close friend and pal to him. I can remember when we would visit your parents, your dad and Ed would reminiscence about the "good old days" working at Dorney Park. It was such a joyful moment for them both! Your parents were very wonderful, respectful, loving people. We will miss them both. Edwin & Joan Walters, Edwin Walters Sr.
Carl Hess
March 6, 2007
Today, we laid Robert to rest in his final resting place next to his beloved wife Sally. It was an impressive interment with a six gun salute and a military interment including fireworks. His dedication to the underprivileged will long be remenbered. May he rest in peace.
Denise Zaharchuk
March 6, 2007
Bobby and Cindi,
Please except my sympathy in the loss of your Father. When I was caring for your Mother,your Dad did tell me that he would not be here much after her passing. I am pleased that he got his wish,many of us did not.
God Bless You and Your Family,
Denise Zaharchuk,LVH,HHA
Vi Wagner
March 6, 2007
To the family of Bob Ott,
My sincere sympathy for your loss, especially after recently losing your mother. I helped your dad with the Merchant Marine bonus. He was so greatfull, he sent me a signed Dorney Park History book, which I will treasure forever. It was a pleasue knowing Bob. We talked alot about Dorney Park when I was a wee one.
Randy Bird
March 6, 2007
Bobby and family. Your dad was a real close and dear friend of our family. My dad will miss him dearly. We appreciate all he has done for our family over the years. Very sincerely, Lillian (Walters) Bird
kathryn getchell
March 6, 2007
My deepest sympathies to the Ott family. "Uncle Bob", like he liked us to call him, came into my life around 20 years when my husband, Gary, was terminally ill. What an inspiration to the word "volunteer". He sat with Gary as a Visiting Nurse volunteer for a few hours one evening each week. He would also stop at times when he wasn't "scheduled" to help out if needed. We laughed, and cried together. I have a lot of fond memories of this fine man, "Uncle Bob". He carved a cross in his workshop from an old cherry tree from Dorney Park for my husband that I will cherish, as I cherished him, for the rest of my life. He always signed his cards "God Bless". God Bless you, Uncle Bob. Kathy Getchell
Georgene Cser, President Allentown Lions Club
March 5, 2007
Bob,
You will be sorely missed by your fellow Lions. We will miss watching and waiting to see what you sketched during our dinner meetings, your wonderful sense of humor, and the great stories of your youth and your days at Dorney Park. We know that your going to Sally, the love of your life, was your dearest wish.
May God grant you the peace you so richly deserve.
Nanette Marsh
March 5, 2007
To Bob and family, I am so sorry to hear your Dad has left us. I do know he is Home with the Lord and rejoicing with your mother and Jacqueline. Mr. Ott was a very special man...so giving, so talented, loving and kind. Please accept my deepest sympathy and may God give you comfort during this trying time.
Sincerely, Nanette Biondi Marsh
Doris Biondi
March 5, 2007
My most heartfelt sympathy to the Ott family. My thoughts are with you . Something I heard in a sermon that has stayed with me is this, which I truely believe :" Our last breath here, is our first breath in Heaven with the Lord"!
I know Bob is Home with the Lord and with his beloved wife Sally.
May God give you strength to cope with the void in your life in the loss of two beautiful people, Sally and Bob.
Doris Bastian Biondi
Wally Ely
March 5, 2007
How sad it is to lose our friend Bob -- so soon after the loss of his dear wife Sally. We know that Bob has rejoined Sally in Heaven just as he had hoped and looked forward to.
Bob and I fashioned an extemely close friendship after we combined our energies to write the history of Dorney Park book in 2003. During the promoitional tour for the book, Bob and I made more then eighty personal appearance speeches,and book "signing" events. Bob was the true star of all these events. His fans and friends came "out of the woodwork" to greet him and share "good old days" stories.
He taught me a lot about sharing and appreciating what we have in life. His memory will go on forever in my life.
Bob expected us to be happy and celebrate his life upon his death. It is difficult to try to be happy following this enourmous loss!
Bob was one of a kind. He loved his Sally, his family, his church and his God. What a blessing it was to have known him!
Suzanne and Wally Ely
Wes Bergey
March 5, 2007
Bob, I'm really going to miss you. We have known each other since we joined the Allentown Lions Club together in June 1968. I will also miss the founder of "The Susan B. Anthony Society" that met before every Lions Club meeting. Now that tou have gone to be with Sally, may you have the peace with our Lord that you so richly deserve. Your friend and fellow Allentown Lion, Wes Bergey
Mikayla Ott
March 5, 2007
My GG Pa was a great man. He had such an impact on me and I will never forget that. He always called me his "little prune", but I don't know why. I was so happy when he came to my birthday party as it was the last time I ever saw him. I will miss him terribly nad he will never be forgotten.
LeRoy Hein
March 5, 2007
My heartfelt sorrows go out to the entire Ott family.
I can remember working at Dorney Park Back in the late 60's and early 70's. He always had a smile on his face.
Carl Hess
March 5, 2007
“To know Bob, was to know a godly person. He now rejoices in heaven with his wife Sally”
‘To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven…a time to die…and a time to heal;…a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance”(Ecclesiastes 3:1-4).
Kevin Vargo
March 5, 2007
I've been at Wildwater Kingdom for 21 years and Mr. Ott was there when I first started. Although I didn't know him personally I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to his family and friends for their loss.
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