James T. “Jim” Otis of Hermiston died on May 6, 2018 in Hermiston at the age of 89.
He was born on Dec. 12, 1928 in Toppenish, Wash. to Frank and Esther Wheaton Otis.
Jim was raised and attended school in Silesia, Mont. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War as a corporal until his honorable discharge. Jim then moved to Hermiston and went to work for the Union Pacific Railroad. He was united in marriage to Patricia Moots on Aug. 30, 1953 in Pendleton. Jim worked as an engineer for Union Pacific until he retired in 1990.
He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. Jim enjoyed woodworking, fireworks, gardening, RVing, traveling, the mountains, and most of all spending time with his granddaughters.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Pat Otis, Hermiston; son, Jeff Otis, Hillsboro; daughter, Geri (Dave) Dickmeier, Hermiston; sister, Jane Steffan, Helena, Mont.; granddaughters, Katie (Marc) and Hailey (Joe); great grandson, Wyatt; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents and 12 siblings.
A graveside service with military honors will be held on Friday, May 11, 2018 at 1 p.m. at the Hermiston Cemetery.
Please sign the online condolence book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
