Dennis Emil Ottolini

Dennis Ottolini, devoted father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Wednesday December 11, 2024 at the age of 86. Dennis was born in St. Louis on May 1, 1938 to Emil Ottolini and Ida Mastrangelo Ottolini, who were both first-generation Americans. His Italian heritage was a source of great pride, and he carried those traditions throughout his life. Dennis was an only child but had many cousins who enriched his childhood. He was the first member of his family to attend college, earning both an undergraduate degree at Washington University in St. Louis and an MBA at Southern Illinois University. After serving in the army, Dennis joined Ameren where he spent his entire career. He retired as a district manager in St. Charles, but also spent many years working in Alton, Illinois. Dennis loved classical music and learned to play the organ as an adult. He was a long-time member of Christ Church Cathedral where he especially enjoyed the Evensong Services. He also loved talking about taking the train from St. Louis to New York to see his grandmother as a child in the 1940s, two dirty martinis at dinner, a vintage clock (he had dozens that would chime at slightly different times), and opera. But he most loved his family and could be counted on to be there when needed anytime, anywhere, and he was definitely the first one with flowers at any stage door.

He was married to his beloved wife and high school sweetheart, Patricia Boston Ottolini, for 56 years before her passing in 2018. Dennis is survived by his children, Lisa Ottolini (Stephen Kennedy) and Daniel Ottolini (Christina), his grandchildren, Lily and Julia Kennedy and Chase and Hayes Ottolini, and his trusted friend of many years, Mike Dairda.

Services: Visitation at Christ Church Cathedral, 1210 Locust Street on Saturday, December 21 from 12:00-1:00, with Funeral Evensong Service at 1:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Christ Church Cathedral.