Obituary of Martin Otteson

Martin Alan Otteson of Neilburg, SK passed away peacefully on July 21, 2024 at Maidstone Health Complex at the age of 89 years. 

Martin was born on the Daysville farm on February 18,1935 to John and Ocella (Barr) Otteson. He was the eldest of five children. 

Martin is survived by; his loving wife, Lorraine Otteson (Ottas); children, Diana (Paul) Kneeshaw and daughter, Laura, Glenn Otteson, Blaine Otteson and daughter, Olivia, Wayne (Antonyna) Otteson and son, Vladimir Gerashchenko and daughter, Anastasia, Barb (Terry) Wotherspoon and daughters, Rachel and Nicole; brothers, Ted (Bertha) Otteson, Ron (Donna) Otteson, Alden (Anabel) Otteson; sister, Irene (Romesh) Kachroo; sister-in-law Elsie Monteith; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Martin was pre-deceased by: his parents, John and Ocella Otteson; father-in-law, Theodore Ottas; mother-in-law, Millie Ottas; nephew, Owen Monteith; brother-in-law, Bob Monteith; daughter-in-law, Nancy Poon; and sister-in-law, Dianne Otteson.

Martin married the love of his life, Lorraine Ottas, in 1957. They moved to Neilburg in 1959 where he worked for the Pioneer Grain Co. for 38 years. Martin quickly became very involved in the Neilburg community where he served on town council in a variety of roles (including mayor) for decades. It was during this time that he was involved with many important town improvements. He assisted the local farming community in various ways, perhaps most notably dousing for water. Martin travelled far and wide to locate water with his unique divining abilities as recently as this spring.

Martin enjoyed working on the family farm near Mervin well into his 80’s. In his later years he loved spending time at the Turtle Lake family cabin, where he enjoyed watching the birds and squirrels, fishing and spending the evenings viewing the lake from his rocking chair.

Martin loved life, he loved talking to people and was known for his quiet and gentle demeanor. He will be greatly missed.

The Funeral Service for Martin will be held at Neilburg Community Hall on Friday, July 26, 2024 at 10:00 AM. 

Interment was held at Mervin Cemetery, Mervin SK.

Donations in memory of Martin may be made to Maidstone Health Complex,  Manitou Pioneer Museum, Neilburg Village Green or donor's charity of choice.