George was preceded in death by his parents, George and Florence Otteman; step father, Leland Olson; infant brother; sister, Darlene and husband, Gerald; niece, Kathy Klahn; son, Scott Otteman; and his son-in-law, Danny Thernes.
He is survived by his three children: Greg Otteman (Annette) Jill Karloff (Steve); Pam Martin (Lyle); 8 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, 4 step great-grandchildren, and 1 step great great grandchild.
George was born in Fremont, NE. He married Judy VonEssen, and together they had four children. George served proudly in the United States Army, an experience that instilled in him a lasting sense of discipline and dedication. He earned his college degree from Midland College. His career included working at Pfisters Farm Store in Fremont, NE; PCA (Production Credit Association) in Hebron/Beatrice/O'Neill, banks in Bruning and Uehling, NE.
Later in his life, George was motivated by a strong commitment to assist others and pursued further education to become a licensed alcohol and drug counselor in 2013. He was employed with Bailey Counseling in Omaha for 11 years. In this capacity, he dedicated his efforts to supporting individuals managing addiction, providing empathetic guidance and fostering hope for those on the path to recovery. Having experienced recovery firsthand, George believed deeply in paying forward the help he once received. He purchased the three-quarter-way house, where he once had lived, serving as both manager and counselor, and built lifelong friendships with the men he supported on their own journeys. At the time of his death, George was approaching 25 years of sobriety.
Beyond his career, George took immense pleasure in golfing. He was passionate about the sport and valued the friendships it brought, often dedicating hours to playing a game he truly enjoyed. George was a beloved regular at Lisa's Radial Café, where sitting still was optional and lending a helping hand - often bussing tables or pouring coffee - was just part of who he was. He thoroughly enjoyed the people there.
George's legacy will live on through his dedication to service, his kindness toward others, and the meaningful influence he had on many people.
There is no viewing but the family will receive friends at the Ludvigsen Mortuary Chapel in Fremont, Sunday, January 4, 2026 from 2pm to 4pm. Burial will be later in the Hooper Cemetery.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(7)
Doug and Kim Johnson
Lincoln, NE Tuesday, January 6, 2026 Sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers. Doug has been under the weather, and getting to Fremont didn’t work into our schedule. Is there a memorial set up?Kendrick Scott
Omaha, NE Monday, January 5, 2026 In the short time that I have known George,he always had kind words to say,sorry for your loss.Larry Frye
Omaha, NE Friday, January 2, 2026 George and I were roommates at Midland. We were good friends and spent a lot of time at the Arlington Ballroom. We went to a lot of dances. I was the best man at his wedding with Judy. I cherish our times together and will never forget him. I wish we could have spent more time together in later years. God bless you George you will always be in my thoughts.Larry
Gail Wagner
Ashland, NE Friday, January 2, 2026 Jill, I am so sorry to see this online. Jim passed on the same day. They are probably playing a round of golf right now. George will have a lot of teaching to do. We sure enjoyed your Dad at the Golf Course. Memories will get us through. HugsLorna Von Essen
King City, MO Thursday, January 1, 2026 Greg, Jill, & Pam:Sorry to hear about the loss of your dad.
I only remember seeing Uncle George once when I was a kid, visiting Grandpa & Grandma Von Essen with Mom & Dad & Jim.
We went to your house for a visit & I remember Pam giving me a ride on a moped out at our grandparent's place too during that visit. :)
Just wanted you to know I am thinking of you all.
Cousin Lorna
Kevin & Lorna Klahn
Mead, NE Thursday, January 1, 2026 Greg, Jill, Pam and your families are in our thoughts and prayers. We hope you find comfort in your faith and all the memories to share during this difficult time.Sending our love,
Kevin, Lorna & Michael
Connie Rokusek
Oakland, NE Thursday, January 1, 2026 Jill and family, very sorry to read of your loss! May your memories live on in all of your hearts! Many prayers and good thoughts are being sent.