Larry Joseph Otteson

July 22, 1944 — April 21, 2026

Larry Joseph Otteson died peacefully on April 21, 2026. He was born on July 22, 1944 to Dora Johnson and Joseph O. Otteson. His parents divorced when he was five years old and he was raised by a single mother for the next 14 years until Dora married Zenol Littlefield, who became his dad. After graduating from North Emery High School, Larry attended Carbon College in Price before being called to serve in the Texas Mission from 1964-1966.

After his mission, Larry joined the Air Force and was trained in aircraft maintenance. Larry was stationed at Bitburg AFB in Germany for four years. He re-enlisted and served a year in Ubon, Thailand during the Vietnam War as a crew chief for the F4 Phantom. His next assignment took him to Luke AFB in Phoenix, Arizona for another two years. He earned the rank of Staff Sergeant and was honorably discharged after serving almost eight years in the Air Force. Many friendships were made during those years that remained throughout his life.

Returning to civilian life, he followed his dad Zenol’s suggestion and became a machinist. He enrolled in the apprenticeship program at Salt Lake Community College and became a journeyman machinist. In addition to working at Hercules, Larry worked part time in Zen’s machine shop. After a reduction in force at Hercules, he worked at several different machine shops throughout the Salt Lake Valley until his eyesight made it difficult to work and he decided to retire.

While Larry was stationed in Bitburg, Germany, he met Mary Lou Jessup while she was living with her Aunt Lynn and Uncle Richard Price, who were stationed there at the base. After a short courtship, they fell in love and were married in the Salt Lake Temple on November 13, 1969, by Elder Boyd K. Packer. They flew back to Germany and enjoyed a yearlong honeymoon where their oldest son, David, was born. Two more sons, Mark and Boyd, were born while stationed at Luke AFB. After moving back to Utah, Richard, Robert, Carrie, and Paul joined the family. This November would have been their 57th wedding anniversary.

Larry was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings. He loved his Savior and came to know the healing power of the Atonement. He was a Scout Master for many years and helped many young men earn their Eagle Scout Award. He received the Silver Beaver Award for his leadership among both the youth and adult scouters. He also served as a counselor in the bishopric, Elders Quorum President, Stake missionary and Stake Young Men’s President.

Larry loved Dutch oven cooking and was often asked to cook for Youth Conferences, ward activities and family get-togethers. He and his friend Kevin Thurgood started a catering business called Dutch Treats and cooked for many businesses and family groups over the years. Having strong teenage sons was a big part of their success as large Dutch ovens are incredibly heavy, even when empty. He was known for his BBQ pork, Denver Omelets and cherry chocolate cake.

Larry faced many health challenges throughout his life. As a young boy, both he and his sister contracted polio. Larry was just hours away from being placed in an iron lung. Through the faith of his mother and a Priesthood blessing, he recovered. He was diagnosed with diabetes in his early 30s and has suffered many complications from the disease. He had a heart attack in his early 50s and later battled esophageal cancer. The chemo and radiation that followed were really hard on him. He suffered for many years from lingering effects of that cancer and treatment. He eventually developed kidney problems and endured seven years of dialysis. Those who knew Larry were amazed that he lived to be 81 years old.

Larry loved his family, his Country, the American flag and his Heavenly Father and the wonderful Plan of Salvation, knowing that his family could be together eternally.

Larry is survived by his wife, Mary Lou. Children: Mark (Morgan), Boyd (Trish), Richard (Sarah), Robert (Iraima), Carrie (Beau) DiVall, Paul (Emily), and daughter-in-law Susan Otteson Haynie. He leaves behind 27 incredible grandchildren and 13 precious great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother David (Linda) Otteson, sister Kathleen Mauger, step-sister Jody (Dave) Young, half-sister Karen Grenz, and half-brothers Kevin and Dennis Otteson, along with many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son David Lawrence Otteson, grandson-in-law Anthony Waldron, parents Zenol and Dora Littlefield, father Joseph O. Otteson, brother-in-law Tim Mauger, and step-brother Dale Littlefield.

The family expresses their appreciation to Dr. Landon Dickson and Fresenius Kidney Care West Valley for helping make life bearable during seven years of dialysis. We also thank Monument Health Murray Creek for the compassionate care Larry received over the past two months. And special thanks to the Salt Lake VA Hospital and to all the doctors and nurses who cared for him through the years.

Funeral Services will be held Friday, May 1st at 11:00 am at 3745 S. 6400 W. West Valley City, Utah 84128. Viewings will be held at the same location Thursday, April 30th from 6-8 pm and Friday, 9:30 – 10:45 am

Zoom link for those wishing to view the services online can be found at:

https://zoom.us/j/92636028629?pwd=m3yLJUO6Xr1qpsOYgMUBN7hmZwX1hh.1