William John “Bill” Ottesen, age 86 of Carbondale, IL, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 in Centerville, TN.

He was born December 25, 1938 in Carbondale, IL to Willard and Erna (Reutter) Ottesen. On December 1, 1970 he married Penny Wiedlocher. They shared 54 years of happy memories.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Penny, of Anna, IL; four daughters, Claudine (Rick) Bruyns of Centerville, TN, Natalie (Mike) Butler of Greenville, SC, Deidre Miles of Franklin, TN, Camille Ottesen of Jackson, MO; ten grandchildren, Erick (Rebecca), Abigayle, Katherine, Benjamin, Nathaniel, and Samuel Bruyns, Mallory (Bruce) Jensen, Meredith (Jared) Sicko, Will and Sarah Miles; six great-grandchildren, James Jensen, Jordan and Ginny Colwell, Penelope Bruyns, and Cora Beth Sicko; he is survived by many other cherished relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Willard Gene Ottesen.

Bill will be fondly remembered for his booming laugh, cheerful spirit, and hilarious antics. He was a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ, devoted student of the Scriptures, and member of the New Life Assembly in Centerville, TN. He especially loved Genesis 17:1 “…I am God Almighty; walk before Me, and be blameless.”

A graveside service was held at Milan Cemetery, Hickman County, Centerville, TN.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Home.