Norman Donald Otis

In Loving Memory

Norman Donald Otis

Norman Donald Otis, 84, passed away peacefully at home in Colorado Springs, Colorado on June 27, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and under the care of a remarkable hospice team (Compassus).

Born in Cortland, New York, Norm spent his childhood in several Central New York communities, including Preble, Syracuse, Constantia, Cleveland, and Central Square. He was a proud graduate of Central Square High School, where he earned varsity letters in football, basketball, and track.

Norm pursued his education with determination, earning an AAS in Advertising from Mohawk Valley Community College in 1963. He continued his studies in Business and Marketing at Northeastern University from 1966 to 1968, later completing his BA in Marketing at the University of Maryland in 1975.

In 1963, Norm began what would become a decades‑long career with General Electric. He worked for Maqua Company, a GE division, in Bridgeport, Lynn, Schenectady, and Bethesda before transferring to GE Information Services in 1969. He remained with the organization through many transitions in Bethesda and Rockville, retiring in 1997. Never one to sit still, Norm continued working “as a hobby” for many years afterward, contributing his skills to The Gazette Newspapers, Facilities Plus, Permits Now, and a log home construction company in Ortanna, Pennsylvania.

Norm’s life changed forever on New Year’s Eve 1964, when he met Monique “Miki” Pauline Albert at a GE engineers’ party in Lynn, Massachusetts. They married in November 1965, beginning a partnership that spanned more than six decades. Together they built a life centered on love, family, and shared adventures. They raised two daughters - Natalie Ann and Rachelle Colette - and delighted in visiting them throughout the years, whether in Warren, Ohio or Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Norm and Miki enjoyed traveling across the United States, Mexico, and Europe; tending to their home and garden; cooking healthy meals (always best with a little wine); and spending time with friends. They shared a love of craftsmanship and creativity, making their home feel warm and welcoming. In November 1988, they settled in Thurmont, Maryland, where they remained for more than 30 years before moving to Colorado Springs, Colorado in 2019.

Earlier in life, Norm gained valuable experience during work‑study assignments in New York City with The Ellington Company, an advertising agency reminiscent of the era portrayed in Mad Men. He often reflected on those early professional experiences with fondness. Norm will be remembered for his steady presence, his devotion to Miki and their daughters, his work ethic, and his appreciation for the simple pleasures of life - home, family, good food, and meaningful time spent together. As one friend simply and perfectly described him, “He was a class act.”

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Monique "Miki" Otis; his daughters, Natalie Stein (husband, Douglas Stein), and Rachelle Otis; and his cherished grandchildren, Alexandra Kraig, Caroline Stein, and Madalyn Stein, and many friends who valued his kindness, humor, and gentle spirit.

In accordance with his wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held. Norm was a lifelong blood donor and believed deeply in helping others through this simple act of generosity. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating blood in his honor, a gift that can help save lives.