Virginia 'Ginny' Otto

Virginia (Ginny) Ruth Otto passed away of natural causes on October 12, 2022. Born on October 6, 1926, in Merrill WI. Ginny was a bright light who always put other people’s needs first. The youngest of eight children. Ginny is survived by her beloved and devoted husband John, her five daughters, Jennifer Simmons, (Bob) Michelle Otto, Salle Otto, Kimberly Otto-Biebuyck (Remi), Bridget Otto, granddaughters Rae Chapman (Justin), Amelia White, step grandchildren, Vesper White, Rush Simmons (Brittany), Grier Simmons (Grace), Ann Simmons and many nieces, nephews. 

Ginny and John would have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on November 15. Born in Merrill, Wisconsin, Ginny met her soulmate John and embarked on a life of music, dancing, love and laughter. She was always up for an adventure! When John joined an orchestra or a band, Ginny was either singing along or in the audience. An accomplished synchronized swimmer, tap dancer, and pianist, she entertained as a performer not only on the radio and in live shows but also for the USO troops in WWII.   Later, after retiring, she volunteered as a reading tutor and cared for the children of several families, all of whom she loved dearly.

In her career as a social service worker in the medical industry Ginny dedicated much of her life to the service of others, but her family came first and foremost. She touched many lives and was loved unconditionally by everyone who knew her. John describes her as “Unmatched as a human being. Incomparable to anyone on this earth“.

A viewing for Ginny will be on Thursday, October 20, 2022 from 6:00 pm -8:00 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Mass will be celebrated on Friday, October 21, 2022 at 11:00 am at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1375 E. Spring Lane, Salt Lake City. 

For those of you unable to attend, return to this page where a watch now button will appear moments before the service begins.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Alzheimers Association, www.aldfdn.org.