Obituary of Robert Ott

Ott, Robert A, "Bob" (86) a lifelong resident of Ritzville, WA, passed way on June 13, 2011 in Moses Lake, WA. Robert was born on April 19, 1925, in Ritzville, WA to Albert and Elsie (Wellsandt) Ott. He was the youngest of four children. His schooling began in the old Central School, the Lincoln School. "Spindle" was a member of the boxing and track teams, and was a manager for the football team at Ritzville High School. He left school before graduating to assume the farm duties as his father was ill with Lou Gehrig's disease. When the farm was transitioned from horses to tractor work, Robert purchased purebred Angus cattle. He was devoted to working with his animal "ladies," and enjoyed the fellowship of other cattle breeders. He met his lifelong love and married Fannie Athos on June 6, 1954. They made their home on the Ott family farm. Robert was a member of the American Angus Association, Adams County Cattlemen, the Camera Club, Trail Riders, WA Association of Wheat Growers, Adams County Crop Improvement Association, the Marcellus Grange, Ritzville Jaycees and Bronco Boosters. Robert spent many hours volunteering as a 4-H leader and FFA advisor. It gave him great pleasure to watch his children and grandchildren grow up. He enjoyed morning coffee and doughnuts with the locals and bowling with the senior league. Robert was a lifelong member of the Zion Congregational Church. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Fannie; daughters Valerie (Dana) Herron and Algene "Genie" (Diego) Mendiola; sons Thomas (Kelly) Ott and Eric (Sharon) Ott. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Karma Halliday (Tyler), Keva Herron, Brett Ott and Summer Ott. Also surviving are: a brother, Arthur Ott of Chewelah and a sister: Elaine Kutschkau of Kennewick. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Mildred Danekas. A Memorial Service will be held Tuesday June 21, 2011 at 2 PM at Zion Philadelphia UCC in Ritzville. Memorials may be given in Robert's name to Zion Philadelphia Church, 301 E Broadway, Ritzville, WA 99169. Danekas Funeral Home and Crematory-Ritzville is entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.danekasfuneralhome.org