John Ottosen

RIP John. Why is there no specific mention of his sons. Sad. Had known John for 37 years. He was a fraternity brother of my dad´s. His son Rob is one of my best friends. RIP

I first met John at the HIYC about the time he and Joan got married and they bought a slip next to ours. We had a lot of adventures together, building slips, co-owning a 4 axel trailer to haul our boats back and forth from Olympia to take in the wonders of South Sound, North Sound, the San Juan Islands, the Canadian Gulf Islands, Desolation Sound as well as the many club cruises on the Columbia River, club dinners and dances. John was instrumental in convincing us and 5 other HIYC members to...

I knew John my entire adult life. He hired me as a secretary in VSD when I was 19 years old, giving me responsibilities that would challenge me to grow in skills, but even better, in confidence and belief in myself. He always demonstrated that belief in me throughout our lives as he became a mentor, a friend, and ultimately my "big brother" when he married my sister, Joan. John loved family and friends and anything social for most of his adult life. He loved engaging with people in his work...

I met John at Wichita State in 1969. He was one of the instructors. The following spring, he said come to Vancouver! He was a great champion for school Libraries. So, I moved to Vancouver-31 years as media specialist at Jason Lee MS. and he was always a champion for school media centers, keeping our needs known to Central Office. Joan, I know you are grieving but keep remembering all the adventures you shared and you with God's grace you will find solace.

Recalling all the fun times and activities shared at HIYC. Lyle and I were grateful to have John as one of the crew for the first ocean voyage of our boat (outgoing and returning) to the San Juans. Hoping the HIYC guys are enjoying a good cribbage game and entertaining everyone with their rendition of "Elvira". Thanks for the good memories, John.

I worked with John for over 25 years and there was not better friend and mentor than John. After retiring, we traveled abroad to France, Spain, Ireland, New Zealand and Australia. Later on, he introduced me to the beauty of the San Juan islands because of our many boating trips. I have so many great memories because of his kindness and friendship. Rest in peace my good friend.