Kenneth John Ottenbacher

Kenneth John Ottenbacher UPPER Kenneth John Ottenbacher was born on April 5, 1950 in Missoula, MT to John and Florence Ottenbacher. Although Ken's father passed away while Ken was young he never felt deprived and was blessed with numerous father figures including his uncles and Max Bauer Sr. The Bauer family was a major influence in Ken's developing a love for the mountains and the outdoors. His mother, Florence, worked hard to make sure Ken and his siblings had a range of experiences and gave them free rein in a time when the world was less complex. He attended St. Anthony Elementary School and graduated from Loyola High School. Ken participated in football and was an avid weightlifter in high school. During his adolescence Ken and his family spent much of their free time during the summers at the Seeley Lake cabin with the Dougherty family. Ken began his academic career at the University of Montana. As part of his training towards a degree in occupational therapy, he spent time serving at the Boulder River School and Hospital which strengthened his life-long calling of helping those with physical or mental challenges.



While attending the University of Central Arkansas he met his future partner and best friend Margaret and they were married in 1975. Soon after, Ken would begin what would become a most successful career in academics and research. He published hundreds of scientific papers, was awarded many competitive and high impact grants, received numerous prestigious awards, was a keynote speaker at many professional conferences, and was a valued colleague and collaborator throughout his career. He was perhaps most beloved for his selfless mentoring as he launched and/or enhanced the careers of countless graduate students and young investigators. He completed 50+ marathons and numerous half marathons and enlisted his daughters to join him for many of them. He also enjoyed spending time with his dog, running on the beach, hiking, swimming, listening to music, and reading.



On April 25, 2024 Ken died peacefully surrounded by his loved ones at the family cabin in Ruidoso, New Mexico, a place he loved as it reminded him of his childhood home in the mountains. He is survived by his wife Margaret Vaughan Ottenbacher, daughters Heather and Allison (Rob), grandsons Bobby and Kenny, sister Michele (Dave), and brother Michael (Julia).



Celebration of Life events will be held in the summer and will be announced at a later time.