John Wilson Otis

John Wilson Otis, of Whitefish, passed away May 26, 2012. He was born December 24, 1938 in Seattle.

John graduated from Sir Francis Drake High School in Marin County, Calif. He went onto graduate from Stanford University and then served as an Officer in the U.S. Navy.

John was best known as a ray of light and inspiration in the hearts of many. John was a lifetime educator and student. He enjoyed the unique side and the interesting side of things. Always curious with how things worked. He enjoyed the "why" in life  

John also enjoyed the unique experience of living in Seattle, San Francisco, Hawaii, Portland, Puerto Rico, Taos, N.M., and finally here in Whitefish. John loved nature and the people he came in contact with. He was passionate about the communities he lived in and always jumped in with two feet. His theory was to start at the local chamber and see where the community needed the most help.  

He was passionate about helping others before himself and always gave to the world more than he took. John is survived by his wife, Cheryl Hyland and his sons, Jeff and Brig Otis, along with a number of other loving grandchildren, cousins, in-laws and perhaps a few outlaws?? We'll never know.

We are proud to remember him as a spouse, a father, a spiritual leader, a coach, a comedian, and most importantly, a friend. We wish him eternal peace.