Raymond George Ott Sr.

Raymond George Ott Sr. passed away December 23, 2021 at the age of 95 in Sewickley, Pa.  He is survived by his 3 children Raymond Ott Jr., Michael Ott and Heather Mehal and spouses as well as numerous grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Growing up in Whitaker, Pennsylvania, he learned the merits of hard work and a strong work ethic.  He was recruited to play basketball at Duquesne University.  He served in the army during WWII, and after discharge, and a few odd jobs, began running his own businesses.  From Ray’s Gas Station to R. G. Ott Construction, he worked hard and long hours and was successful, but you would never know it from the plywood floors in his house and outdated appliances.  Those things were not important to him and he preferred to live an independent, rustic life.

In his little corner of the world, he built amazing fires, told endless stories and tended his garden.  He loved interacting with people from all walks of life.  Almost every day, someone would stop in and sit with him by the fire and discuss business, relationships, politics, future plans and the state of the world, among many other wide-ranging topics.

During the warmer months, he was out on his highlift moving dirt or rocks around for some project he had started.  Mind you, most did not get finished as there were too many to complete. 

He believed in destiny, but he also believed you make your own destiny.  Hard work and long days were how he lived his life but he loved his family, and always had time for a stranger in need. 

He tried to have a simple life, but even at 95, he was managing apartments and his business up until the very end.

He lived a full life and touched the hearts of many.  May he Rest in Peace.

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