Otto Genz, 72

Otto Genz, 72, was born on Nov. 3,1952 in Mandan, North Dakota and passed away at the Veteran’s Home on June 12, 2025. His mother was Ruth Sophie Renner, and his father was Henry William Genz. He had five brothers and one sister, Paul Genz, Adolph Genz, Rose Genz, Michael Genz, and Johnny Genz. He also has a half-brother named Glenn Christensen. Although Otto never made a family of his own, he found one in his neighbors. His neighbors consisted of Schad Linstead, Jackie Dedman, Hunter Linstead, Sierra Floura, and Faith Linstead. He was like an uncle to the kids (Hunter, Sierra, and Faith) and would accompany them to field trips when their dad had to work. 

Otto decided to join the Army after graduating from high school June of 1971. He was a clerk typist, aka "Remington Raider." He served in Vietnam and Seoul, Korea. He went on to receive the national defense service medal, armed forces expeditionary medal, and sharpshooter badge with rifle bag. Otto was Honorably discharged from the Army June of 1973. After his military service, he went to Minnesota State University for three years focusing on communications. Otto went on to buy his own semi-truck hauling grain, meat, produce, and even M&M’s. He ate so many M&M’s while on the road that he got sick of them and never wanted another M&M again! Truck driving was his favorite job because he got to travel and see the country. He retired as a concrete foreman from Rock Solid Foundations in 2008. Aside from truck driving, many people may remember him from his hobby of going to the Kila dumpsters and repurposing items from there. 

Otto’s funeral will be held at 2 p.m. on July 14 at Montana Veterans Cemetery in Columbia Falls. Columbia Mortuary will be handling the arrangements. To send online condolences please visit the website www.columbiamortuary.com.