Joseph H. "Joe" Otzelberger

Joseph H. 'Joe" Otzelberger, 67, Rockford, IL, passed away unexpectedly, Saturday, January 18, 2014, at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. He was born November 15, 1946, in Menomonee Falls, WI, the son of George and Elizabeth (Goetz) Otzelberger. Joe married Pamela Prohaska in Rockford, on October 17, 1987.
Joe retired from ComEd in 2009. He was previously employed by Pieper Electric and Hooper Construction Co. in the Milwaukee area. Joe was a member of the IBEW and a volunteer for the Meals on Wheels program.
Joe embraced life to the fullest. He treasured his life with Pam, as they laughed together and nurtured each other. They enjoyed cooking, gardening, vacationing, quiet times on their deck, and family pets Stella, Gordon and Teddy. Any pursuit was richer for doing it together. Joe's appreciation of nature and adventurous spirit were reflected in his lifelong love of fishing and travel. Joe was caring and generous, a gift to family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. He was a man of integrity, character and honor.
Joe is survived by his wife, Pamela; his son, Joseph "Joe" S. Otzelberger of Minneapolis, MN; his sister, Victoria Evert of Mequon, WI; his sisters-in-law, Ellen M. Prohaska of Chesapeake, VA, Beth (Joe) Jann of Machesney Park, and Lori (Jim) Graber of Rockton; his brother-in-law, Paul (Dianne) Prohaska of Rockton; many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, his sister, Georgia Nelson and his brother-in-law, Richard Nelson.
A memorial gathering will be held from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm on Saturday, January 25, 2014, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd ,Rockford, IL 815-226-2273, with a time of sharing at 3:00 pm on Saturday at the funeral home. Cremation rites have been accorded. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Noah's Ark Animal Shelter, 111 N. 1st St. Rockford, 61107 or your local animal shelter. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.