Frederick "Freddy" Otten

September 14, 1947-January 1,2026

U.S. Veteran

Frederick "Freddy" Otten, 78, longtime resident of Ashland passed away on Thursday, Jan 1st surrounded by his loving family after a short battle with lung cancer. Born in Jersey City, New Jersey, but grew up in Southborough, MA he graduated from Algonquin Regional High school and continued his education at the Ward School of Business and Machine Accounting in Worcester. Upon graduation, Fred enlisted in the United States Air Force and served his country honorably in the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his service overseas.

Upon returning home, Fred would enjoy a variety of work experience. He was a restaurant manager for Bickford's Family Restaurant location primarily working out of their once Framingham location. It was here he met his future wife, Marianne, before continuing onto other work interests. He opened a breakfast/lunch diner in Upton, and ran security details at Kidde-Fenwal before ultimately landing a 34 year career with the United States Postal Service-Sudbury which he retired from in 2017.

Although Fred is now reunited with his late brother, Robert and parents, Frederick Sr. and Edna (Bjelke) Otten, he will be missed by many. In addition to his wife of 47 years, Marianne (Colonna) he leaves son Matthew Otten and his partner Kayla Carroll (Boston), his daughter Samantha Otten and her partner Patrick Parker (Concord), his sister-in-law Pamela Otten (Carmel, IN), and many other family and friends. Most importantly, he leaves behind his beloved Golden Retriever and best friend, Mandy to join Abbey, Buddy and Sophie.

Fred was a no frills, no fuss kind of guy. He was musically talented playing both the piano and organ in addition to being an exceptional singer. He loved to be active but also was fulfilled just enjoying his own backyard. Early on he was in a bowling league and as he got older came to love golf although it rarely loved him back. He loved supporting his kids at their athletic games, spending many Sundays growing up traveling to Matthew's pop-warner football games. And later traveling all over the East coast for Samantha's track meets. With his favorite child, his Golden Retriever Mandy, he enjoyed daily hikes at either the Ashland Fish & Game or Ashland State Park.

His friendly, easy going, gentleman like disposition made him many friends over his lifetime and gained him much respect from those around him. He loved entertaining and his community. Fred was a long time member of the Ashland VFW, American Legion and Ashland Fish and Game. Although he lived an exceptional life his biggest joy were his family and accomplishments.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 31st  from 1-4pm downstairs at the Ashland VFW Post #2331, 311 Pleasant Street, Ashland MA 01721.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Fred's memory may be made to Ashland VFW Post #2331, or Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or via www.dana-farber.org/gift