Russell J. Ott

Russell J. Ott, 74, Indianapolis, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, June 16th. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 6, 1934 to vaudevillian parents Charles and Hattie Ott. Russell spent 11 years in the US Air Force as a radar repair technician on B-24's. He was always proud of the fact that he went to Antarctica five times. His electronics and mechanical skills led him to start his own business in 1968 repairing CB radios. This developed into Comtronix Corporation which he has owned and operated for the last forty-one years. He was a licensed multi-engine pilot and flew his own airplane to Europe and a multitude of trips to the Bahamas, Dominican Republic and Mexico. During the last 17 years, he spent much of his time at his cabin in the north woods of Minnesota where he made friends with and enjoyed feeding black bears.Russell had a head full of knowledge and humor which he shared with everyone. He was responsible for encouraging many to start their own businesses and many others to get their pilot's license (including his wife). He looked for adventure everywhere while taking all of us along for the ride – and what a wonderful ride it was. He is survived by his wife, Cathleen; four daughters, Sandra K Rusk, Pamela F McCarrel, Cathleen M Stein, Anette Ott-Sirico, one step-son, Ron Bland, Jr , seven Grandchildren and many wonderful friends. A visitation and celebration of Russell's life will be held on Saturday, June 20th from 10:00 – 12:00 with the celebration of his life to follow at the Harry W Moore Mortuary, 8161 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions be made to: North American Bear Center, PO Box 161, Ely MN 55731