JoAnn Otto

JoAnn Otto (Bailey) was born on December 6, 1939 in Sterling, Illinois to Edward and Mabel Bailey. She was the youngest of five. She passed peacefully in her sleep on October 15, 2024. 

After moving from the Midwest to California, her family eventually found a path to Eugene, Oregon when she was a young woman. Throughout her life, she worked a variety of interesting jobs including doughnut manufacturing, sales technology, and the veterinary industry. 

She married Sigurd H. Otto on May 18, 1968. They had two sons. She officially became a stay-at home-mom with the boys. 

A woman of faith, JoAnn loved Jesus! She was frequently active in the church, where she had many friends. She was always one to lend a hand, bring food to someone in need, and just generally be kind. 

She was ridiculously optimistic and ever hopeful. She loved ice cream, but not spinach. She loved hard work and was honest to a fault. She loved Olive Garden lunches. She loved the mountains, fishing, and the snow. She loved red birds. 

She loved her friends and family. 

The last of her generation, she outlived all the rest. She was preceded in death by her husband, Sigurd; her parents, Ed and Mabel; her brothers, Earl, Donald, and Paul; her sister Helen. She is survived by her sons, Hans and Eric (Van); grandchildren Phylesha, Nick, Veena, and Bree; and great-grandson Zander. Close friends include Rita, Linda, and Louanne. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree, or making a donation to Bristol Hospice in Springfield, Oregon. 

A memorial service will be coordinated for summer 2025. If you'd like to attend, please email jwo.memorial@gmail.com.