John Edward Ottersbach

John Edward Ottersbach obituary

John Edward Ottersbach

John Ottersbach Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Cotner Funeral Home on Aug. 25, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

John Ottersbach passed away, surrounded by his family, on August 21, 2025, at the age of 80. He was born on September 14, 1944 to the late Freddy and Beatrice (Theobold) Ottersbach in Louisville, KY.

John graduated from the University of Louisville with a degree in Electrical Engineering in 1968. He enjoyed a successful career in engineering and later in teaching. In his spare time he would hike, build and fly model airplanes and make and assemble parts for miniature trains.

John was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He married his wife, Marlene, in 1968, giving them 57 years together. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children Chrisie McLarnan (Bill), Jay Ottersbach (Shay), Kim Winters(Jacob) and Daniel Ottersbach (Erin); his brother Richard Ottersbach; and his grandchildren Luke, Tyler, Zak and Skyler and Vivian. John will be greatly missed by all of his family.

A private graveside service will be held at Mifflin Cemetery, Gahanna Ohio.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Cotner Funeral Home

7369 East Main Street, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068

Make a Donation
in John Ottersbach's name

How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor John Ottersbach's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign John Ottersbach's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?