Michael Otten Obituary
On the job, Michael J. Otten was a dedicated, third-generation firefighter. He joined Ladder Company 35, near Lincoln Center, when he was 26, and spent nearly 16 years there.
The maiden name of his wife, Marion, was Otten, an odd coincidence that made them a team right away, she says.
"We'd go food shopping together and he would want to push the cart, and I would want to push the cart," she said. "He was not afraid of cooking or cleaning or fixing anything or trying anything new." Newborn babies didn't faze him; neither did fixing a broken washing machine or putting a new wing on the house. "He was in a very comfortable place in his life," Mrs. Otten said. "We were happy with what we had."
That included a four-year-old tradition: inviting the firehouse to a summer barbecue at their house in East Islip, N.Y. The menu always went beyond hot dogs and burgers, since Firefighter Otten watched cooking programs. Recently, the three Otten boys asked their mother if she planned to have "that fireman barbecue" again. And yesterday, with everyone pitching in, she did.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Molly Micciche
September 12, 2023
Thinking of Marion and your family with love
September 11, 2023
Michael you are remembered and your life, courage, and service to others, celebrated! May God richly bless those you loved with peace and comfort. Thank you for answering the call and making the ultimate sacrifice. Rest in Peace
Ad Otten
February 15, 2019
on 1 February 2019 we visited the 9/11 museum. In the overview of all the deceased people I saw the name of Michael John Otten. We are from the Netherlands and my name is Ad Otten. Despite all the impressions that the museum and all thoughts had on me, this had an extra input. My thoughts are with all relatives.
Ad Otten
Michael N
November 8, 2018
Hi Michael
I remember you from birchwood hanging with gleesons and lengafields..Joey passed also..You where always smiling. Mike I hope your in a better place and we all meet again someday..so sorry
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S.J. Friscia III
August 31, 2016
In Memory with
Honor & Respect.
Roxann Naud
September 11, 2015
Today we did the 9-11 stair climb in San Antonio, TX. I carried the Michael Otten Ladder 35 badge to the top. Thank you for your courage. Rest in peace.
Lorie Grabowski
September 11, 2015
Still miss your smile and laugh Michael. I know you are watching over all the boys, and are especially proud of your own.
September 10, 2015
I grew up on Pine Street. Mr. Otten was my neighbor. I remember the Christmas after the attacks seeing your boys on Christmas Eve. They looked so lost and every year I still see them in my mind and weep for them. I am so glad and proud to hear that they are following in your footsteps.
9/11 Memorial Michael John Otten
Debra Lingard
February 25, 2015
On a recent trip to NYC my daughter, Lauren, took this beautiful picture at the Memorial. She explained the significance of the flower, and said she cried when she realized it was his birthday. I felt drawn to find out who this was. We can never thank Michael for his sacrifice that day, but I hope his family knows that he is loved by even those who never knew him. This picture, the love it represents, and Michael's name will forever be in our hearts! God Bless your family!
jerry zirk
September 11, 2013
Remembering my old boyhood friend. Mike you were a great guy & it seems you were an equally great man. You made us all so very proud my Hero friend. God bless your family.
September 9, 2013
Marion,
I think of you and the boys and Michael all the time, especially this time of the year. Much love always.
Molly
Christin Whittenberg
September 8, 2013
Hello my name is Christin Whittenberg from Dallas Tx Area. My husbandwho is a firefighter did the 911 memorial stair climb In Dallas TX yesterday. He walked for Michael Otten. What a great honor. We are so sorry for your loss.
Guido Otten
February 2, 2013
Hello, from the other side of the Atlantic ocean we also find what happend on 9/11 a disaster for humanity. The los of any human is one to many, and wors is someone that does his job saving people. We find it sorrowful.
Eric Otten
January 21, 2013
Hello Marion.
My name is Eric J. Otten. I live in Minneapolis MN. I'm not sure how close our relation is, if any at all. I am honored to share the same name with, in my eyes a true HERO. I started listening to the book "Firehouse" the other night, which is how I've come to learn about your husband and family. I thought I would share the irony of me choosing this moving book. This Thurs. 1/24/13 I am applying for a position on the MPLS F.D. This is something I've wanted to do for quite some time. So, when I heard your husbands name and began to learn about his story and the men he worked with it has only strengthened my decision to pursue my dream with the hard work and dedication Michael and his co-workers obviously had. Sincere Thank You to Michael and your Firefighting family.
Miss Fran Hutchinson
September 11, 2012
Want to let you know i think about you often,especially Jason,I was his teacher at A to zoo preschool,You are always in my heart.How is Jason.I still teach pre school.Luv to all
September 11, 2012
Never meet, but neighbor to Michael's Uncle Hank and Aunt Lynn in Nassau Bay TX for 15+ years. Your and other heros are in my prayers.
Vincent Berend
June 26, 2012
MARION,
I ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER EACH DAY FOR MICHAEL AND YOU AND YOUR SONS. I HOPE YOU STILL HAVE THE CANDLE I GAVE TO YOU.
LOVE, ANGELA (FORMER RECEPTIONIST AT DDI)
garett
May 2, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss and appreciate that Michael sacrificed his life to save other people trapped in the towers on that horrible day. my name is Garett and i am trying to find out more about Micheal and his life.
Molly Micciche
September 29, 2011
Marion and the boys, My love to you all. Marion, your boys are very lucky to have you for a mom and you can only be teaching and loving them in the right way. That is because of the wonderful person that you are. The boys have been gifted in their having Michael as their dad and you as their mom.
Love Molly
Robert Stiles
September 25, 2011
We didn't personally know Mr. Otten, but my family and I also reside in East Islip where he will always be remembered as a hero. We recall that Mrs. Otten was always helping with soccer as well. God bless this wonderful family and the wonderful Otten sons. Thanks for all you do to make this a wonderful neighborhood. You are in our thoughts.
robert barnes
September 11, 2011
i did not know michael
i ran in his memory on september 10,2011 in las
vegas for the 911
remembrance
his name was on my running
bib
at airport to head back home
september 11, 2011
we will never forget
Robert Barnes
September 11, 2011
I didn't know him at all.
However his he was one of the Many that we all ran for in memory for in las Vegas. September 10,2011
It was a touching special run o will never forget
Jerry Otten
September 11, 2011
I did not know my Michael but I've read so many great things about him. He is a true hero and his sacrifice will never be forgotten. With sincere gratitude from a fellow Otten from California. You will always be in my prayers.
Lisa Rubinow
September 11, 2011
Right after 9/11, a friend of mine ordered bracelets in memory of those who lost their lives during this horrible event. I received a bracelet with Michael's name on it, and wore it in his memory for quite some time. I was brought back this morning as I watched the memorial service at ground zero and one of the cameras zoomed in directly on his name on the memorial fountain. I pray that God will continue to bring healing and peace to your family and may Michael's legacy continue to live on for years to come. God bless you ever so abundantly! My prayers are with you!
September 11, 2011
Although I don't know you,my name is Otten too.You will live on in our hearts and prayers.God Bless Virginia(Otten)Smith
Caroline Hammond
September 9, 2011
With Love & Gratitude
Craig Lowry
August 25, 2011
You will never be forgotten, I have worn a braclett with his name since that day...God Bless
September 12, 2008
In memory. God bless
Michael Ballin
September 11, 2007
Marion -
Through several links I was directed to this site. Although I never knew Michael, it is apparent that anyone who had the privelege of knowing Michael or being in his company should be considered blessed. Today especially, our family's blessings and thoughts are with you all.
With heartfelt blessings, prayers, and regards to you, the boys, and your entire family and circle of friends,
The Ballin Family
September 7, 2007
Thinking of you Michael.
God Bless you, Marion, the boys and the rest of your family.
Nancy Nee
sister of FF George Cain..ladder 7
Ben Otten
July 10, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. Even though I didn't know Michael I'm sure he was a great guy. I'm praying for you.
P Tabbernor
January 23, 2007
In memory....
Kristine
November 22, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Guy Otten
November 14, 2006
Dear fellow Ottens
I have just come across this moving legacy to an Otten who died on Sept 11th. I join in this act of remembrance, even though I never knew Michael!
David Otten
October 13, 2006
Dear Otten Family,
I'm not sure if we're related either but I suppose it's possible as my grandfather came to the US from Germany at the turn of the century. He came from a large family so maybe if we went back far enough we might find some common ancestors. I want you to know that I've thought of you often in the past 5 years and every time I look at Michael's name on the memorial flag that hangs in our firehouse I think of you. Blessings to you from the Solon Fire Department (near Cleveland).
Bill and Irene Otten
September 11, 2006
My wife and I were viewing the Ground-Zero ceremonies of 9-11's 5th Anniversary today. Michael J. Otten was among the names of those who perished that day. We feel a deep sorrow for all those brave people that died on that horrible day. We share a special closeness now to Michael, not ever having met him, because our name is Otten. I guess we're sort of related now.
To his wife Marion and family we extend our heartfelt sympathy and deepest condolences.
Doreen Mastermaker
September 7, 2006
We are just about on the eve of the 5th year since September 11, 2001. It still feels like yesterday.I am blessed to know Mike and Marion, and the boys. Mike was a terrific husband, father , son, brother and friend. A huge void was created 5 years ago in the many many lives that Mike touched. Not a day goes by that I don't think about Mike and Marion, and pray for his peace and her and the children's happiness. God bless you all!
Joe Capobianco
June 20, 2006
As a visiting fireman from Boston at Lad 35, I had the pleasure of meeting Mike and sharing more than a couple of well placed 3 Stooges lines...(and a few others too) and a lot of laughs.
All good memories of a new friend, but always a brother, albeit too few.
jack vierling
June 18, 2006
Mr and Mrs. Otten,
I'm writing to thank you for choosing me as the 2006 class scholarship recipient. I was so happy to meet you both at the ceremony. Since that night I am amazed at the number of people who have come up to me when I wear the t-shirts that either knew your sons or daughter Debbie. They have all obviously made some sort of mark on this community. My best friend lives on Headline and until this baseball season opened I never realized that it was renamed for your son. I'm so sorry for your loss but am sure you must be so proud that his life was so appreciated by so many. I hope that so day I can make a difference and with your help this will get me started. Thank you again.
Jack Vierling
PS I have recently become an Eagle scout and my ceremony will be toward the end of the summer. I would like to invite you and your wife to join me so if you can e-mail me how to contact you I would appreciate it. Thanks again
Bell Michael
May 31, 2005
Today is Mermorial Day 2005. Not a day goes by that i don't think of all of you who went on that RUN.As I drive by the signs including Mikes I can't help but think of that day and wonder if anyone will remember what really happened that day.NEVER FORGET
Helene Sumpter
December 29, 2004
Michael,
I remember when I lived across the street from you on Headline Road and I was friends with your sister Debbie. You would always tease me, but were truly a sweet guy. Who would have thought that cutie pie across the street would one day be a SUPER HERO. Words cannot express the sadness of knowing that you being a true Hero, cannot be here today. God Bless you. Only the good die young!
PJ Ottens
December 5, 2003
i have to wonder if there is some kinship btwn the otten and ottens family as our sir names are similiar. im sorry. your spirit will live on. i will never forget.
Susan Schwab
September 30, 2003
I didn`t know Mike, but I do know his son Chris. From what Chris has told me about his father he sounds like a great person as well as father. He died to protect his family and everyone else .He contributed to the world and saved many lives. If he was here today he would have been able to save more.
I hope that the Otten family is proud of what Mike did to help us I know i would be!!!
Phil Camera
September 11, 2003
Michael was a cousin of mine, sort of a cousin that is. My parents and his are the best of friends and have been for over forty years. That's why for me, it's always been Uncle Rich and Aunt Terry.
Growing up as kids, Mike and I would get together with our families at each of our parents houses. I remember we would always be trying on his dad's fire helmet and gear that was kept in the upstairs hall closet.
I was always a little afraid to put on the gear, but not Mike. He wasn't afraid. Just like on September 11, 2001.
Even though we moved in different directions as we grew older, I will always look back and remember, with fondness, the memories of two five year old boys playing fireman.
gerard zirk
March 31, 2003
I didn't think I personally knew anyone who died that terrible day. My nephew worked at the site but wasn't there when they attacked. Here it is april fools day 2003 and I learn of Mike. We went to school together and played on the same football team. Mike was very funny. We used to call him rubber man because of the the way he would bounce up after getting creamed. Good bye old friend. God strongly bless your family.
Dori Griffith
September 18, 2002
Dear Otten Family: I too feel we are connected in some way as my maiden name is also Otten. Not a day goes by that I don't think about and pray for Michael, his wife and children. If we all live our lives as unselfish and giving as Michael did, this world would be a much better place. God bless the Otten family!
Robert Otten
September 11, 2002
We never met, but can't help but think we are all members of the Otten family.Our thoughts and prayers go out to you in this time of great sorrow. God bless all.
Bob Otten
Kelley Otten
September 11, 2002
To; The Otten Family I am not sure if we are related, my father is from New Jersey, but I guess that really does not matter. My heart goes out to the entire Otten Family, as one year ago today this tragic attack took place, and the USA lost so many of our children, wives, husbands, fathers, and mothers. It may make you feel a little better to know that the people in Alabama have you and so many others in our prayers. May God Bless your family and all the others who lost loved ones. You are in my prayers. Yours truly, Captain, Kelley Otten, Hazel Green Fire Rescue.
Lori Najdek
September 9, 2002
God Bless Michael Otten and his family our hearts go out to you.
Barbara Seaver
August 31, 2002
Dear Mrs. Otten and family....
I am a resident of East Islip also. Last Christmas I was there at the firehouse as you and your lovely family lit the Christmas tree. You gained my admiration that night, as I know it had to be difficult. To me, your husband Michael is a TRUE HERO. My heart and prayers go out to you and your family as well as your 3 wonderful sons. I know that Michael is smiling on all of you from heaven...
Angie Campbell
May 8, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Christine (and Samantha) Gleeson
May 8, 2002
Although it's been quite a few months since September 11th, not a day goes by that I don't stop and take a moment to reflect on what you and your fellow firefighters gave for us that day. God Bless You, Michael -- You'll never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Otten family, may God grant them peace and healing.
March 19, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL HERO FIREMAN...MICHAEL OTTEN AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS WIFE..CHILDREN...FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..STAY CLOSE AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..MAY JESUS AND ST.MICHAEL GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Victoria Reed
March 13, 2002
Michael is the brother in law of a very close frined of mine(also Michael Otten) I know how much Mike stuggles with Michael's fate each day, proud of him because of his service and what a fantastic family member and friend he was, but devestated that anything had to happen to him, even if it was performing a heroic, grand duty. I pray for only the best for all of the Ottens and hope that each day helps them heal a little more and brings a world of new memories that they know Michael is still there with them in spirit every step of the way.....
Elaine Mollica
February 6, 2002
My memories of Mike are from my teenage years in the 1970s and 80s. I was one of the Carto Circle kids who 'hung around' with the 'Headline Boys' at Birchwood field. We did what kids do and acted the way kids act and had a grand ole' time. I smile when I think of him and those days and nights and his beautiful blond curls.
I send my love and respects to his sister, wife and children.
Love, "Miss Mollica" Elaine
Francis Gabriel
January 31, 2002
I just read the story "Sick Day" produced by Marvel comics, which was dedicated to Michael Otten and his family. I was so overcome by the way the story conveyed the tragedy and heartbreak suffered by the Ottens, but who nevertheless cope as best they can. I believe in God, and I hope Mr. Otten's family will find some solace in my certainty that he is in a better place, and they shall all be reunited one day.
Donna and Brian Gleeson
January 9, 2002
Dear Mike,
I just wanted everyone to know what a wonderful man Michael truly was. He was a loving father of 3 great boys, a devoted husband for 14 yrs. and a true friend. He was not only a firefighter, but a true human being. We will miss him forever,but will always have a smile to our faces when we think of him. The NYFD and world has lost a wonderful person. Our love and sympathy go out to his family. We will always be here for you if you need us...Love, Brian and Donna
Judy C
January 1, 2002
Dear Michael,
I never met you, Michael, but I wanted to express to you and your loved ones my heartfelt sorrow for the sacrifice you made on September 11. You and so many other brave firefighters gave of themselves what no man should have to, but you did it because of the kind of man you must have been. We all know what it takes to be a firefighter, sadly we all know so well.
Thank you for what you did every day and thank you for what you did on September 11. God Bless you and I know you are in a better place than we are, now.
Rest in peace with your fellow Angels. I want you to know I will be looking for your special star in Heaven in the darkest of night!
Teresa Jahn
December 16, 2001
We thank Michael for dedicating his life to helping others. Such a dedication comes with a warm and caring heart. We thank Michael for sharing his heart with others. We are deeply sorry for your loss of Michael. Our heart cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
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