James Ottinger

January 30, 1942 - April 22, 2020

James H. Ottinger, age 78, of Monticello, passed away at the hospital in Brandon, Florida on April 22, 2020.

Jim was born on January 30, 1942, in Boone County to the late Francis and Wilburta (Ramsey) Ottinger. He grew up on several different farms in Boone County. He graduated from Thorntown High School in 1960. On November 11, 1962, Jim married Jane Fairfield and she survives. They lived in Elizaville and he farmed with his father, while attending Porter Business College. They moved to Lafayette and he worked at State Farm Insurance in Data Processing. Jim became a State Farm agent and moved to Monticello, IN. He worked for State Farm for 46.5 and retired in December of 2010.

He was a member of the Monticello United Methodist Church, past board member of the Monticello Banking Center, involved in the Monticello Jaycees, member of the American Legion and Moose Lodge.

Jim loved to garden and play golf since he retired. He grew up going to Minnesota fishing and continued this tradition with his family. He loved to attend and video his kids and grandkids sporting events. Also, he was an avid Purdue fan and loved attending the football and basketball games.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jane, their children, Doug (Cindy) Ottinger of Carver, MN, Melody (Keith) Owsley of Racine, WI, Candy (Scott) Bowsher of Rockville, IN; grandchildren, Courtney (Logan) Ketterer, Mitchell Ottinger, Zachary Owsley and Mason Bowsher; sibling, Peggy Arnett of New Palestine, IN. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Wilburta Ottinger; sister, Susie Bowen and Jane's parents, Ivan & Violet Fairfield.

Due to the CDC's current restrictions of public gatherings, a private funeral viewing was held for the family. Burial was at Lincoln Memory Gardens in Whitestown, IN. A memorial celebration of Jim's life will be held at a later date