MADISON - James H. Otis, age 87, passed away on Monday, January 27, 2025, at home. He was born on July 11, 1937, in Madison, Wis., the son of Oscar and Bernice Otis.

James attended Central High School. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Mary M. Puccio, on Oct. 18, 1958. James was a loving husband and an incredibly loving father. In 1962, as a member of Lathers Local III, he volunteered his labor in the creation of the iconic “Old Woman in the Shoe” slide at Vilas Park. He then became a carpenter and foreman with the Findorff Construction company until the time off his retirement.

James loved camping and boating with his family. He enjoyed trout fishing with his son, Steve, deer hunting, meeting up with his brothers for lunch and was an avid Packers fan.

James is survived by his daughter, Tracy Otis; son, Steven Otis; grandchildren, Erika (Eric) Gors, Ryan (Trista) Steele and Adam (Anne) Steele; bonus granddaughter, Melissa Lendborg; great-granddaughters, Rayne (Cody) Schultz, and Isabelle and Scarlette Steele; great-great-granddaughter, Lilly Rose Schultz; very special friend, Kelly Kuran; sisters, Darleen (Bob) Gugal and Charleen (Wayne) Fowler; brother, Darwin (Linda) Otis; sisters-in-law, Lorraine Otis, Patricia Otis and June Julseth; and many loved nieces, nephews and friends.

James was preceded in death by his wife; parents; and brothers, Rolland, Wayne, Delbert and David.

A funeral service will be held at Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Care, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 12 noon on Friday, February 21, 2025. Burial will immediately follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday, February 21, 2025.

James’ family would like to give special thanks to Agrace HospiceCare for all of their care and support.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

James Otis

July 11, 1937 - January 27, 2025

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