William Daniel Ott

William Daniel Ott, a man whose essence was woven into the fabric of family and community, peacefully departed this world on June 16, 2025, in Corpus Christi, Texas. He was born on December 5, 1940, in Strong City, Kansas, and dedicated his life to family, community service, and his country.

William enjoyed a blessed life, enriched by his role as a devoted family man. He was especially supportive of his children and grandchildren, consistently providing rides to swim practice at 6 AM and coaching on weekends. His dedication to family extended to picking up grandchildren from school and taking them out to "burn off energy" by picking up aluminum cans, instilling in them the values of hard work and community involvement.

A proud veteran, William enlisted in the US Navy in 1962 as a radioman, serving with honor for over 25 years. He completed two years in Vietnam and held assignments in Midway Island, Hawaii, Maryland, Morocco, Florida, Virginia, Texas, and California. His military accolades include the Purple Heart, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Humanitarian Ribbon, Sea Service Ribbon, Navy Achievement Medal, and the Defense Supply Agency Meritorious Service Award. He retired as a Senior Chief Radioman in 1986 and continued to serve his community by working in civilian communications at NAS Kingsville until his final retirement in 2005.

William’s contributions extended beyond his military career. He was an active member of the United Methodist Church for many years, serving as an usher, choir member, and leader for the Methodist Men. He was also a frequent coach for the Kingsville Youth Soccer Organization and Kingsville Youth Baseball when his son was growing up. His commitment to service included volunteering for many years as an Auxiliary at Sphon Kleberg Hospital and mentoring with Big Brothers/Big Sisters in Hawaii. He was known for his vibrant sense of humor and ability to bring laughter into the lives of others.

In addition to his accomplishments, William was a lifelong fisherman who cherished spending time by the water, creating lasting memories with family and friends. He sang in the Kingsville Community Choir, contributing to the cultural fabric of the community he loved.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Barbara Ott; daughter Danielle Friend; son Douglas (Nelda) Ott; brother David (Dianne) Ott; grandchildren Dakota (Edward) Chavez, Jerral Friend, and Lizeth Salinas; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

William is preceded in death by his father John Ott, mother Marjorie Beth Eastman Ott, and brothers John and Michael Ott.

A memorial service to honor William's life will be conducted on July 12, 2025, at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary in Kingsville, Texas, starting at 2:00 pm, with condolences from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm. The family invites friends and loved ones to share in the celebration of a life well-lived and deeply cherished.