Richard Ottman

July 7, 2026

Richard Ottman, known affectionately as Dick or Papa, was a man of unwavering conviction, a deep love for God, and an even deeper devotion to his family. He was born on August 9, 1938, in Carlisle, NY, to parents Roy and Irene Ottman. Richard grew up in Cobleskill, NY. 

He graduated from Alfred University, where he also participated in the US Army ROTC program. While attending college, he and his wife, Lynn, were married and began building friendships that would last a lifetime. Following his graduation, Dick went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army.

Professionally, he worked in the field of ceramic engineering for many years until he transitioned to working for himself as a manufacturing representative for farm equipment. He truly loved this work, and just as he did in his college days, he built many meaningful friendships throughout his career.

He was a man who believed in the beauty of sharing. Whether it was his famous dahlias that colored the village of Elbridge or the sixty-plus coffee cakes he hand-delivered every Christmas, Dick’s generosity was boundless. He found his greatest joy in helping those in need, and he cherished his annual retreats to Topsail Island, North Carolina, where he created lifelong memories with those he loved.

A proud member of the Jordan Masonic Temple, he loved running the Super Bowl Chicken Barbecue for many years. He took great pride in the event, and his famous baked beans were always a crowd-pleaser. 

A college basketball fan, he loved attending Syracuse University basketball games alongside his son and his sister, Reba. His passion for the game also took him across the country with his good friend, Stan, with whom he shared the unforgettable experience of attending numerous Final Fours and Sweet Sixteens.

He was an avid swimmer who delighted in teaching his grandchildren to dive and swim. Known fondly as the "King of the Chicken Barbecue," he was a master of the grill and a great host, most notably for the annual Ottman clambakes that became a cornerstone of summer for his family and friends. 

For 63 years, Richard’s heart belonged to his devoted wife, Lovely Luscious Lynn. Together, they built a family that was his greatest pride. He is survived by his children, Penny Feeney, Derrick Ottman, and Melinda (Chris) DeCola;his seven grandchildren, Hannah Gu (Chen), Devyn Ottman (Camille), Jonas Ottman (Natalie), Sam Feeney (Meg), Bella DeCola (Zak), Caleb DeCola, and Libby DeCola. This year, he was further blessed with twin great-grandsons, Oliver and Grayson Gu. His memory will also be cherished by his many nieces and nephews, as well as longtime family friend Matthew Snyder, all of whom held a special place in his life. He was predeceased by his beautiful wife Lynn and beloved sister, Reba Spencer. He is survived by his brothers James Ottman (MaryAnn) and Franklin Ottman (Patty).

The family is deeply grateful to his cardiologist, Dr. John Ulahannan, for his compassionate care and for guiding them to the exceptional team at the Vivian and Seymour Milstein Family Heart Center at Columbia University. Their collective care and support truly gave him many extra, cherished years of life. Special thanks are also given to Erin Calhoun, NP, at Family Care in Elbridge, who was not only a dedicated caregiver but a true and comforting friend to Richard.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to his caregiver and friend, Donna Vattner, for the care and companionship she provided over the last five years. Notably, Donna became so proficient at baking coffee cakes that she eventually no longer required Dick’s supervision. They would also like to express their heartfelt thanks to Megan Lashomb, whose dedicated care in his final months blossomed into a cherished friendship. They are equally grateful for caregivers Steph Hammond, Shannon Daigle, Dee Dems, and Tyler Lange, whose presence and care brought immense peace to his last months of life. 

He deeply valued his relationship with Bob Oliver, who was not only a tremendous help in caring for his lawn and home, but a wonderful friend.

A celebration of his life will be Saturday, July 25th at the Jordan Methodist Church with calling hours from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm and a memorial service immediately following.

Dick found immense joy in helping those in need. In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to the JE Food Pantry, an organization that meant a great deal to him. Donations can be sent to the Jordan-Elbridge Food Pantry, PO Box 155, Jordan, NY 13080.

To leave condolences, please visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.