Colleen S Otteson
July 18, 1956 - November 11, 2025
Obituary
POYNETTE - Colleen S. Otteson, age 69, of Poynette, passed away on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. She was born on July 18, 1956, in Madison, the daughter of Dale and Beverly (Buhler) Gannon.
Colleen graduated from Madison East High School in 1974. Following graduation, she was employed as a waitress at the Esquire Club for many years. She then met the love of her life and was united in marriage to Dirk Otteson on July 5, 2002. Colleen and Dirk resided in the Lake Wisconsin area for the past 23 years where Colleen worked as a waitress and bartender at a local Bar and Grill before retiring.
Colleen enjoyed many of life’s simple pleasures. She loved spending time immersed in a good book or playing pool and had a special fondness for collecting owl figures of different types. She was always ready for an adventure-before marriage she enjoyed traveling with friends to Arizona and Florida. Once married, she and Dirk enjoyed taking spontaneous day trips as well as travelling to destinations like Niagara Falls, the Smoky Mountains, and Up North. She cherished the changing seasons and especially adored the vibrant colors of autumn leaves.
A spirited shopper, Colleen believed you could never have too many purses or shoes. She was a social, outgoing person who treasured time spent with friends. Known for her big heart, she often helped people in her community-whether they needed an extra hand around the house or assistance with meal preparation. In return, that same community lovingly supported her through her recent illness.
Colleen is survived by her husband, Dirk; brother, David (Louise Raker) Gannon; brother-in-law, Eric (Cindy) Otteson; cousin who was like a sister, Pat Kinney; and two nephews, one grand-nephew and one grand-niece. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dale and Beverly; and beloved canine companions, Roxie and Maggie. Colleen deeply appreciated having her grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins in her life, they truly made her the person she became.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420