July 10, 1943 - September 29, 2015
Visitation
Saturday, October 3, 2015 from 10 a.m.- 1 p.m., Moreland Funeral Home
Service
Saturday, October 3, 2015 1 p.m., Moreland Funeral Home
OTTE
Paul J. Otte, age 72, died on 9/29/15 at St. Ann’s after his battle with pulmonary fibrosis. He was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Westerville. Paul is preceded in death by his mother, Anne Marie Hirsch and his brother, Peter E. Otte. He leaves behind his adored family-daughter, Deanna L. (Eric) Kropf and Son, John M. (Alicia) Otte, and his three grandchildren, Kaitlyn A. Kropf , John (Jack) D. Otte and Abigail G. Otte nieces, Linda Krause and Kristine Otte; his ex-wife and friend, Donna M. Otte. Paul served in the Marine Corp and continued to use those experiences throughout his entire life. He always had the ultimate respect for our military men and women. Paul received his Bachelor degree in business from Wayne State University that started his career as a CPA for a few years before continuing his education earning is Doctoral degree in Education from Western Michigan. Dr. Otte was the VIce President at Macomb County Community College in Warren, MI before accepting the position of president at Franklin University in Columbus, OH for over 20 years. Semi-retired, Paul devoted his time to writing and teaching. He completed his last book ‘We Leadership’ just before his passing. Paul was an inspirational and devoted teacher. He composed and performed many seminars for over 40 years doing his part to make positive leaders for all walks of lives. Thorough the generosity of Libby Ross, Ross Leadership Institute was born were he devoted his last years of teaching with other dedicated professionals helping to carry on their work. Most recently Paul compiled a book based on Marine Corp General Al Gray with his many short sayings and inspirational statements for his fellow Marines to carry with them in a little pocket size book. Paul proudly served as a Board Member on prominent Columbus area businesses. He traveled all over the world sharing the sites with is family. Service will be held at MORELAND FUNERAL HOME, 55 Schrock Road, Westerville, Saturday at 1 p.m. with visitation beginning at 10 a.m., Rev. Carl Jerzyk, officiating. Private interment. We ask that in lieu of flowers that donations be made to his favorite charities, Autism Speaks or Semper Fi Fund or Nationwide Children’s Hospital of Columbus.
Condolences
Jason Jennnigs - Oct 6, 2015
Paul was one of the greatest men I’ve ever had the joy of knowing. He was an early supporter of my books and promoted me to his influential circle of students, friends and admirers. A few years ago he brought me into Franklin for a keynote speech and finally we were able to meet and spend time in person. What a gentleman. My sincere condolences to his family and close friends. Paul was generous of his time, talents and compassion; a delightful person. Jason Jennings
Susan Jaeger - Oct 3, 2015
Dr. Otte provided wonderful professional opportunities for me at Franklin University and I am indeed grateful. My sincere condolences to the family whom he cherished above everything.
Susan Jaeger
Brian L. Schleppi - Oct 1, 2015
I feel very blessed to have crossed paths with Paul some 15 years ago. His ideals and philosophies particularly in regard to leadership will live on in me and in many others. I consider Paul a teacher, a mentor, a friend, and a blessing to me. He expanded my vision, challenged me, and help me get through a few tough times/issues (and I’m sure he didn’t realize the depth of his influence on me). I particularly appreciated that he was very open to disussion and debate. He respected and considered many varied views. I was saddened to learn of his passing from this world. I will lift his family, friends, loved one up in prayer. I will miss Paul but am reminded of many pleasant memories. I will celebrate his life and his legacy.
Lili Macklin - Oct 1, 2015
I worked with Paul at Franklin University, during which time I came to greatly respect his devotion to excellence. He truly cared about making eduation accessible and affordable to adults from all walks of life. Paul had such high ideals, expectations, charisma and passion, he could elevate the results for whatever project or endeavor he cared about or touched. I am a better professional and person for having known him.
Betty Young - Oct 1, 2015
My heart breaks at the loss of my friend and mentor. Paul saw the potential in others and was there to help them realize that potential. A visionary leader who changed the course of Franklin University to become the preeminent University it is today which includes serving so many community college students who may not have access to continuing their education if it were not for the Franklin Community College Alliance Program. This is how I came to know Paul and joined him at Franklin to develop and grow this program. I owe much of my professional success to the opportunities he provided to me and in my years as a College President he has always continued to be a the one I could always call for advice and counsel. The world is a better place because of Paul’s contributions and I am blessed to have had him in my life. I join you in your grief and in the celebration of his life. Hugs. – Betty
Darrin Adams - Oct 1, 2015
Paul was a lifelong educator and his classroom was everywhere he stood and his students were whomever he spoke to. A talented, enlightened, self-less and always faithful friend who’s legacy remains within all of us who were privileged to know him. Sincere condolences to his family and his many friends.
Ted Light - Oct 1, 2015
I worked with Paul at Franklin University and on several other projects since then. He was a trusted mentor and friend to me. I admired his intellect, dedication and demeanor. I am truly sorry for his loss. My hearfelt condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed but warmly remembered.