Robert E. Otterstein, 89, of Rock City, IL, passed away at home on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, in the presence of his family caregivers. He was born December 28, 1933, in Green County, WI, on the family farm. Following his graduation from Dakota High School in 1951, Robert enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. As the war in the Pacific Rim advanced, Robert's posts quickly moved from the U.S. to the Philippines and then eventually into Korea – where he served as an Airman 1st Class in the 3rd Bomber Group.  He married Mary Alice Heinen on August 25, 1956 at the Davis EUB church.

Robert's knowledge and skill sets were originally cultivated on the family farm, and then further honed during his working career – which traversed the insurance, printing/paper, industrial supplies and transportation sectors. His work travels crisscrossed the continental U.S.; and he could describe the most direct route to reach nearly any major city or significant destination without a map or relying on GPS. Even though a series of health-related afflictions impacted Robert's physical mobility for the last ten years, his mental sharpness could surprise family and non-family members alike – particularly when it was Euchre time.

When he wasn't on the road, Robert enjoyed the outdoors – especially fishing and hunting. Whether from the lakes and rivers in IL and WI to the waters in Ontario, there were no shortages of fishing tales involving family and friends. Since he enjoyed cooking, there was always a chance that a new fish or game recipe could surface. In addition, Robert was an avid magazine reader; a history enthusiast; and a tinkerer, as he developed different things over the years for the home and garage.

As a life-long member of the United Methodist Church, Robert was active in various organizations with fraternal, philanthropic and social affiliations. These groups primarily included the American Legion and the Freemasons (e.g. Davis Masonic Lodge, Royal Arch Commandery, OES #470 White Shrine and the York Rite Council). He was also a volunteer firefighter for Rock City for many years.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Mary Alice (Heinen); his four children, Michelle (William) Lindsay and their children, Courtney (Carl) Nutter, Christina Lindsay, Cameron Lindsay and Chandler Lindsay; Jeffrey (Jorie) Otterstein and their daughter, Ellie Otterstein; Monica (Reynaldo) Cruz and their children Christian (Ashley) Cruz and Carissa Cruz; and James (Robin) Otterstein and their daughter, Taylor (Jack Harkness) Moses. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Royal W. (Florence Schmerse) Otterstein; 1 infant brother, Kenneth Otterstein and several extended family members, including more recently his cousin Roger (Tamara) Otterstein.

The funeral service will be held at 12:30 PM Saturday, December 2nd, at the Davis UMC, with a visitation beginning at 11:00 AM. An interment, at a future date, will take place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport, IL. In memory of Robert, donations can be directed to the Durand American Legion Gold Star Post 676, the Freeport Masonic Temple or the Shriners Children's Hospital. Condolences may be shared at www.walkermortuary.com.