MARK M. OTTO

Mark M. Otto, 63, of Sugarloaf Key, Fla., passed away on Wednesday, June 6, 2012, with his loving wife by his side, in his arms. Mark had been fighting cancer since June 2011. He was a strong man, with a passion for joy and fun in his life, once Terri and he first met.

Mark was born in Clearwater, Fla., to Henry Otto and Marie (Mount) Otto. His family moved to Key West in 1956 to open the Western Auto store, first on Duval Street, and then on North Roosevelt Boulevard. After closing the business in 1979, he worked for Odes McKillip Construction Co. and later captained the "Miss Key West" sightseeing boat. As an avid watersports enthusiast, he assisted many celebrities in diving trips to the reef. His interest in nature and the water led him to one of his favorite spots, Marvin Key.

Mark spent the last 20 years working for Florida Keys Mosquito Control, covering the area from the Seven Mile Bridge to the Dry Tortugas.

In 2002, Mark met his best friend and soulmate in the world, Terri Bougrand-Gibson. As time went by, they grew closer and more in love. Mark and Terri were married on the beach in Negril, Jamaica, on July 4, 2004. Since the time they met they were inseparable. Wherever one of them went, the other was there! They were always at each other's side, loving, holding hands, just being one! Mark was a true gentleman who loved his wife more than anything in the world! He had a twinkle in his eye and love in his soul. He had an angelic spirit about him that everyone loved.

He was the best husband anyone could ever dream of, the best brother anyone could ever hope for, and the best dad one could be proud of! He will greatly be missed, thought of and loved dearly every day for the rest of our lives!

He was preceded in death by his father, Henry Otto; mother, Marie (Otto) Arango; and sister, Shirley Blazevick.

His surviving family members include: his devoted and loving wife, Terri L. Otto; their bundle of joy, Precious L. Otto, both of Sugarloaf Key; brother, Henry and Susie Otto of Titusville; sister, Marie Jean Petersen of Ocala; stepfather, Tony Arango of Springhill; adopted son: Peter and Jaime Otto of Utah; and many nieces and nephews; and grandson, Cameron Otto.

Mark had numerous friends and family and his "Keys family" that will cherish his memory and miss him immensely.

The family will be spreading his ashes per his wishes and there will be a celebration of life from 2 till 5 p.m. Sunday, June 24, 2012, at Mangrove Mama's, Mile Marker 20. For more info, please call 305-896-6558.