Jerry Otter, 80, of Lebanon, Oregon, passed away Friday, June 10, 2022, at his home.

 

Jerry was born July 18, 1941, in LaPorte, Indiana, to the late James E. and Iradell (Moore) Otter. On March 5, 1966, Jerry married the love of his life, Judith (Judi) Bargholz, who preceded him in death on May 29, 1996.

 

Jerry is survived by his two daughters, Jennifer Hunt, and Julee Otter both of Lebanon, Oregon; two brothers, Charles (Chuck) Otter of North Webster, Indiana and Ron Otter of Heidelberg, Germany; and a sister, Linda Severs of Idaho.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Judi; brother, James; and son-in-law, Jimmy H. Hunt.

 

Jerry dedicated his life to his family, his many dogs and horses, and meeting new people having never met a stranger. Jerry was known to ride the country roads with his dog, stopping to meet anyone with a horse in the pasture or who may have looked to have an interesting story to tell. He also enjoyed horseback riding, bird hunting, and fishing. Jerry and his wife raised and trained Labrador retrievers for years prior to Judi’s death, earning several AKC hunt test titles with their dogs. He also supported the LaPorte County EZ Riders 4-H club as a committee member and clinic leader. Jerry was retired from the LaPorte County Highway Department where he worked many years as an equipment operator. After retirement, Jerry moved to Bandera, Texas, where he lived for 8 years, spending much time riding his horse with friends in the Texas Hill Country. Once he moved Oregon, he became a member of the Oregon Equestrian Trails group.

 

Cremation will take place and a celebration of life will be held at 11:00am, Wednesday, September 21, 2022 at Haverstock Funeral Home, 602 Maple Ave. La Porte, IN. Burial will take place at Union Mills Cemetery, 3551 W 800 S, Union Mills, IN.

 

 Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.