Otto Holtz

Otto C. Holtz, 98, Rib Mountain, died Wednesday, February 1, 2012 under the care of Hospice House services. He was born on March 29, 1913 to the late August and Anna (Weber) Holtz in Grand Park, IL. On February 2, 1935, Otto married the love of his life, Katie Powers, and would celebrate 76 years of marriage before Katie's death in 2011. The happy couple was blessed with three children; Dick, David, and Sherry. Otto will always be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Known as quite the "jimmy-rigger", he had a knack for fixing any and everything. Otto enjoyed being outdoors doing anything, but especially logging, and cutting the grass. He was also willing to help anyone when they needed it. From helping out at church, to being Grandpa's taxi service, to testing out Katie's baked goods, he always did it with a smile. When Otto was in his 60's he came across a magazine that would spark his interest in fitness. He took up running, jogging and walking; everyday that Otto would go for a jog, he would log his miles totaling over 26, 000 miles. That total includes several 5 and 10k runs, and a few half marathons. He even ran the American Odyssey Marathon 6 times, completing his last one when he was age 75. In the winter he would cross country ski as well as enjoy skating on the pond.
Otto was an involved man, not only with his family, but as a life-long member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ in Wausau, and a 50 year member of the Rib Mountain Lions Club. He enjoyed being around his family, and will always be remembered by them for his big bear hugs, firm handshakes, fun personality and strong faith.
He will sadly be missed by his children, Dick (Beverly) Holtz and Sherry (David) Tanck; daughter-in-law, Marlene Holtz; grandchildren, Becky (Wade) Weiland, Jon Holtz, Nonie Holtz, Bart Holtz, Kim (Cory) Gladden, Fritz Holtz, Heather (Tim) Grace and Heidi (Eric) Presteen; great-grandchildren, Kyle Holtz, Baylee Holtz, Brenna Holtz, Sydney Weiland, Hannah Grace, Isabella Grace and Lauren Presteen; sister-in-law, Cinda Andreshak; and many extended family and friends.
He is further preceded in death by his son, David Holtz and siblings, Ernest, August Jr., Gert, Anna, and Irma.
A memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 4, 2012 at St. Paul's United Church of Christ, Wausau. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday at the church and last until the time of service. Pastor Keane Foster will be officiating. You may sign our family guest book at www.helke.com
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be directed to St. Paul's United Church of Christ in Otto's memory. (426 Washington street, Wausau, WI, 54403) or to the Hospice House (530 N. 32nd Ave. Wausau, WI, 54401)
The family would like to specially thank the nurses and staff of the Hospice House for their compassionate and loving care for Otto and the family in his final days.