Ron Ottsen, an Iowa native, migrated to California where he spent 30 years as a psychiatric social worker helping youngsters with troubled lives. Seeking a rural area for retirement, he found Whitefish, which he thoroughly enjoys. His close knit family consists of a sister, Sandra, and a brother, David, and their families.

Three times each week, Ron volunteers at Whitefish Middle School, where he assists two fifth-grade teachers. In addition to helping with spelling and reading, he teaches a Latin group, in which the students are increasing their vocabularies by learning the Latin roots of common words.

He has lavish praise for the school, the teachers and the students. In his words, “I love the fifth graders. They’re really outgoing, appreciative and eager to learn.” He describes his work at the school as “extremely exhilarating and rewarding — the center of my life.”

Evidence of cherished memories is readily apparent in his home, where the refrigerator door and several walls are adorned with cards from students expressing love, admiration and respect. He was moved to tears when both classes combined for a surprise “thank you” party for him. Students eagerly look forward to his arrival and candidly say thing as “he really helps us,’ “he cares,” “he never wants any child to feel badly,” and “we can be ourselves around him.”

Teachers, likewise, have high praise for him, saying that he reaches out to all the students, that he’s aware of their academic and social needs, and because of him they’re able to offer a much deeper field of learning opportunities,

Ron, your service to our youngsters is beyond measure. You have the love and respect of teachers and students alike.

Our community is fortunate to have you as a mentor and role model for our children, and we thank you.

— Jake Heckathorn

This column is dedicated to those who give freely of their time and energy to worthwhile community projects, but whose efforts often go unnoticed. If you know such a person, please e-mail [email protected].