William Henry Otto, Jr., age 77, of Selbyville, DE, formerly of Glen Rock, PA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford, DE.

Born on July 25, 1948, in Bel Air, MD, Bill was the son of the late William Henry Otto, Sr. and Margaret Cora (Taber) Otto. From an early age, he developed a strong work ethic, a love of family, and a deep commitment to service—values that shaped every chapter of his life.

Bill graduated from Dundalk High School in 1966. He attended Essex Community College, where he played basketball, before enlisting in the United States Navy. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War as an Aviation Electrician's Mate.

After his military service, Bill built a long and respected career as a master electrician. He was a dedicated longtime member of IBEW Local 24 in Baltimore, MD, and later worked for many years at Harley-Davidson in York, PA, where his skill and reliability earned him the admiration of colleagues and lifelong friends. In addition, he owned and operated his own business, Otto Electric—an accomplishment he took great pride in. Bill carried a deep respect for his trade and the brotherhood it represented.

Bill's greatest joy in life was his family. A natural coach, mentor, and encourager, he spent countless hours cheering on and coaching his children and, later, his grandchildren. In addition to coaching all three of his children, he served as an official for the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA), umpiring and refereeing baseball, softball, basketball, and football for many years. Most recently, he found tremendous fulfillment helping coach his daughter Christina's women's softball team, Team Phoenix, where his humor, optimism, and guidance made him a beloved presence.

Diehard Maryland sports fan, Bill could often be found passionately rooting for the Ravens, the Orioles, and his beloved Maryland Terrapins. He enjoyed boating and fishing—especially peaceful days on the water—and treasured simple coastal pleasures, like cruising in his mustang to the boardwalk to enjoy a bucket of Thrasher's fries and the ocean view. Known for his uncanny ability to fix almost anything, he was the family's go-to troubleshooter and took pride in working on cars, tinkering with projects, and lending a helping hand wherever it was needed.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary (Doak) Otto, and his sister, Rebecca Otto-Bell. He is survived by his three children: William H. Otto III and his wife, Angel; David J. Otto; and Christina M. Bireley and her husband, Chris. He also leaves behind four grandsons—Austin Dorrier, Jacob Otto, Ceth Bireley, and Zack Otto—and his great-granddaughter, Vivian Dorrier—all of whom brought him immeasurable joy and pride. Bill's legacy of love, generosity, hard work, and devotion to family will continue to live on through them.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held this month, when family and friends can gather to honor his memory, share stories, and remember the many ways he enriched their lives.  Interment will be held at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro, DE, where Bill will be laid to rest with honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Bill's name to the South Coastal Cancer Center, c/o Beebe Medical Foundation, 902 Savannah Rd., Lewes, DE 19958.  Bill shared a special bond with the staff, whom he deeply appreciated and adored, and they held him in equally high regard.