Obituary of Connie Sue Otto

Connie Sue Otto, 83, of Greeley, CO passed away on September 10, 2023 at The Lodge at Greeley. Connie was born to Leonard and Ester Harrison in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. She grew up in Gering, Nebraska and always loved singing in various choirs at school and church. She attended Colorado State College (now known as the University of Northern Colorado), majored in Music Education, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 1961.

She met her husband Monte while singing with the Choral-Aires, a group that toured the Far East with the U.S.O. while in college. They were married on August 28, 1960. Their favorite productions were their three children Allyson, Roy, and Reid.

Connie's first teaching job was in Lakewood, CO for four years. She taught private voice and piano lessons for the next 20 years, so she could be at home raising their children. She continued her singing in various church and community choirs.

In 1979, she and Monte started Cottonwood Florist in Greeley which they owned for 18 years. During her time in Greeley, she continued singing and traveling with the Greeley Chorale and the choir at First United Presbyterian Church (now known as Cornerstone Community Church) and enjoyed many close friendships for over 40 years. Her family was her joy.

She and Monte were blessed with three wonderful and caring children, who married three loving spouses and brought them more joy with five grandchildren. Faith was always a most important part of her life. During her retirement years, she was able to share it through her Bible study groups and volunteer work. She would hope to be remembered as someone who loved life and lived it with integrity and a smile... and oh yes, maybe a tear! She chose her life verse from Psalm 118:14 - "The Lord is my strength and my song. He has become my victory."

Connie was preceded in death by her parents, husband Monte, and son Reid.

Connie is survived by her children Allyson Gardner, Roy (Sally) Otto; grandchildren Emily (Lance) Rayburn, Allen (Candace) Gardner, Sarah (Chris) Zalesky, Cari Otto, Jett Otto; brother Roy Harrison.

Memorial services will be at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at Cornerstone Community Church, 1321 9th Avenue, Greeley. In honor of Connie, send someone flowers, take a friend to coffee, decorate your home or dining table for the holidays, go to a choral concert or enjoy some wine on your back deck.