Otto Anthony Etzel passed away on January 24, 2025. He was a beloved husband of 57 years to Rosemary Etzel (nee Koller). A loving father to Rose (Paul) Berra, Otto III (Shelly nee Slay) Etzel, Christina (Channing) Smith, Kathy (Kurt) Berry. Proud grandfather to Sarina, Paul, Louie and Sophia Berra, Otto IV, Henry, Anthony and Alex Etzel, Channing Stice, Giavanna, Vivianna and Milania Smith, Charlie, Matthew, Lucas, Owen and Lexie Berry. He was preceeded in death by his parents Otto and Sarina Etzel. He was a dear brother-in-law, uncle and friend to many.
Otto was born on July 18, 1940 and grew up in South St. Louis City. He was a 1958 graduate of CBC High School and attended Southern Illinois University. He met Rosemary as a young teen at the Riviera Park and Pool where she worked. They were married in 1967 and had their first of four children one year later. He started his own Food Brokerage business in 1974, O.E. Brokerage, which has recently celebrated it’s 50th Anniversary of being in business. This was his true passion. He still went into work 5 days a week and was very proud to say his son has taken over this legacy.
Another true passion of Otto’s was his love of family. Otto was an only child, so having 4 children and 17 grandchildren was his proudest accomplishment. He loved to take our entire family of 27 on vacation. He looked forward to trips to the lake and Sunday Dinners at home. He also loved watching every sporting event his children and grandchildren participated in. You would find him on the sidelines watching closely and then he would want to talk about everything you did right (or wrong) immediately after the game. He would always want to know how many goals, touchdowns, baskets, serves, races, flips or dance routines so he could put money in an envelope for you to pick up at the next Sunday dinner.
Otto was one of a kind and will be missed tremendously by his family, friends and business associates. A service will be held in his honor on Saturday February 1, 2025 at St. Catherine Laboure Parish (9750 Sappington Rd, St. Louis, MO 63128) viewing 10-11:15 am with mass to follow immediately. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Families of FANA, WNY, Inc 1100 Amherst Street Buffalo, NY 14216 http://www.familiesoffana.org/donations, The Little Lighthouse 5120 E. 36th St. Tulsa, OK 74135 http://littlelighthouse.org, Peter and Paul Community Services 2612 Wyoming Street St. Louis, MO 63118 https://ppcsinc.org/give/donate-now/.
Rosemary,Rose,Otto 111,Christina,and Kathy I am so sorry for you and your families loss.Otto and I spent many many years together sometimes 6/7 days every week working to build OE Brokerage which was his life. He was a Boss and Dear Friend and will be missed by all.We offended talk about family and he was so proud of his children and grandchildren.He always told me building this company for my children and grandchildren was his goal and he sure did accomplish that.I was thinking of Otto(Big O)a few months ago and I sent him a email catching up and I am now so glad I did.I will never forget him and all the time we spent together over 25 years.I will keep the whole family in my prayers.I am not sure if I can fly in but Otto will be in my heart.Warmest Regards Wayne
Our thoughts and prayers to the entire etzel family. Steve and stella leonard.
What a wonderful and caring man and a beautiful tribute. You were all so blessed to have him in your lives. It is so sad to lose someone like Otto. My heart goes out to you and your family. XOXO Erin
My prayers are with you all. Though, I did not know Mr Etzel I worked for Rosemary for 10 years and my 11th year I worked for son Otto before retiring. My years working for the Etzel family to say the least was fulfilling. They were the most respectful and caring employers an employee could experience.
I say all this because he must have been a good example and teaching that family and employees are important!
Sorry for your loss. May God be with you!
Otto was my godfather, and he will be deeply missed. The world feels a little less bright without him in it. I’ll always cherish the memories of our family vacations together when younger to his visits to Arizona after I moved, where he would always make time to reach out and invite me to dinner. He was always so fun, kind, and thoughtful. Truly took an interest in me, my family and what was going on in my life. If I had remained in St. Louis, I know I would have been fortunate to spend more time with him.
He was a remarkable man-a devoted father, a loyal friend, an inspiring role model, and a man of deep faith. Our prayers, thoughts, and heartfelt condolences go out to the entire family. He will remain in our hearts for a very long time to come.
Prayers for the Etzel family. I was privileged to work for Otto. He was a great man who loved his family dearly. He worked hard and cared for his workers. I will never forget Otto senior.
Christ tells us that a good tree bears good fruit, and Otto’s family in Tulsa certainly testify to the values he clearly instilled in them. Please know of our prayers and condolences from the Parish of Christ the King and Marquette School.
Otto was one of the nicest people o met when first entering the Foodservice Business with Campbell Soup Company in 1990
His son “Little Otto” is a true testament of a very positive & professional upbringing
Big Hugs & Bigger Prayers to the entire family 🙏🏻💔✝️
We’re so sorry to hear this news Mrs. Rosemary. He sounds like a great man. Please know your neighbors are here for you.
Nothing can fully prepare us for the loss of a beloved father, but the cherished memories you shared will remain in your hearts forever. Otto was very proud of his family & business. We extend our deepest sympathy and prayers to you during this difficult time.
With heartfelt condolences,
Otto Senior was a legacy! He truly loved his family and friends. I will forever be grateful for his friendship with my Pop, Sal Lorino. Dad and Mom always looked forward to the visits with the Etzel’s.
What a wonderful family they created! Maybe God hold you in His arms and carry you through this really tough time. Heaven has a lot of chatter up there💕.
Wendy Forshee
My sincere condolences to the Etzel family for the loss of their patriarch. He was such a kind and generous person. He will be missed by many. Thoughts and prayers will continue. May God bless all of you.
The sadness of your loss can be brightened knowing Otto went to his reward for sure! I know my dad was up standing at the gate saying, “Otts! I’ve been waiting for you! Pull up chair!”
Your family is a blessing to everyone they touch – and that’s a LOT of people! Let your memories sustain you and know our prayers are with you.
Much love ~ Victoria Spinzig (Sal and Judy Lorino’s oldest daughter)
Otto was a mentor to me and taught me about the food business. He provided valuable encouragement and support when my employer lacked to ability to do so. I will never forget his friendship and advice.