Otto Wilson

Otto Wilson, 83, of Celina, Ohio went home to be with his Lord and Savior Wednesday January 28, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born December 18, 1942 in Pineville, Kentucky and was the son of the late David and Louvernia (Hensley) Wilson.

On January 11, 1964 Otto married the former Marie Anna Saco, who preceded him in death on April 6, 2005.

Otto graduated from Rockford High School in 1961. He worked at New Idea Farm Equipment for 37 years. Otto went on to work at the Fremont Company for several years. Otto was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution. He was also a proud member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church for over 50 years. He served as an ordained deacon at the church. Music was a big part of Otto's life. He learned to play guitar at the age of four. He wrote his own music and made several records. As a teen he even started his own band, which was the first of many bands Otto would be a part of. Otto used his talent to serve the Lord at his church until very recently when he became unable to perform. He was also an avid bee keeper for over 50 years.

Surviving are two daughters, Angie (Mike) Grunden of Van Wert, Ohio and Lorie (Bart) Beerbower of Rockford, Ohio; six siblings, Henry (Imogene) Wilson, Lena (Daryl) Gruver, David (Lina) Wilson, Marvin (Judy) Wilson, Sandy (Lowell) Kable, and Rick Wilson; five grandchildren, Amber (Matt) Evans, Andy (Lisa) Grunden, Todd Grunden, Samantha (Mitchell) Saalfrank, and Raya (Jensen) Riley; nine great grandchildren, Gracie, Regan, Anna, Noah, June, Elijah, Shea, Makyn, and Colter; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to Otto's parents and his wife, Marie, he was preceded in death by his sister, Vera Wilson; sister and brother in law, Shirley and James Baltzell; and his brother and sister in law, Jay and Charlotte Wilson.

Funeral services will be conducted 11:00 am Monday, February 9, 2026 at Ketcham Ripley Funeral Home, 111 West First Street, Rockford, Ohio 45882, with Ron Beougher officiating. A private family burial will take place at Hamilton Bethel Cemetery in Mendon, Ohio.

The family will receive visitors from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm Sunday, February 8, 2026 at Ketcham Ripley Funeral Home in Rockford. They will also receive visitors from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, prior to the funeral services, Monday February 9, 2026 at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions in honor of Otto can be given to his care giver, Angie, or to Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 8356 Shelley Road, Mendon, Ohio 45862.

Online condolences may be shared at www.ketchamripley.com.

Services have been entrusted to Ketcham Ripley Funeral Home, 111 West First Street, Rockford, Ohio 45882.