On Saturday, February 28, 2026, William Earl "Bill" Ottaway, Sr. gained his wings at the age of 92. He was born on May 14, 1933 in Ripley to Walter and Treva (Saunders) Ottaway.
Bill proudly served his country in the early 1950s as a member of the U.S. Air Force, working as an airplane mechanic. His time in the Air Force nurtured a lifelong love for aviation, leading him to become a private pilot who enjoyed flying recreationally out of the Dart and Dunkirk airports. His love of flying turned into a passion for hot air balloons with a final flight over the Genesee River in 2023. He retired from Renold Inc. with over 20 years of service and belonged to the local machinist union 1555. He was a proud member of the American Legion Post 327 and the Westfield Moose Lodge 118, where he was an active member for over 40 years. He spent many years volunteering with the Westfield Fire and Auxiliary Police departments. Volunteering and serving others was always important to Bill.
He loved being with family and friends. His time was spent camping, attending bowling tournaments, golf outings in West Virginia, and driving through the Alaskan wilderness with his wife, Judy. He enjoyed attending a game, play, or musical and celebrating a wedding, birthday or anniversary. He loved being in his camper, a fire burning, grandkids and great-grandkids running around with his dog, Annie by his side. Always a smile on his face, loving every minute with the important people in his life. Loved by all who knew him, Bill was the heart and foundation of his family, leaving behind a lasting legacy of love and strength.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Peggy Elizabeth (Wilcox) Ottaway; his parents; and his brothers, Gordan, Arthur and Richard. Bill is survived by his wife, Judith A. Ottaway; his children, Sandra (Larry) Porter, William (Faith) Ottaway, Scott (Crystal) Ottaway and Randolph (Denise) Ottaway; and stepchildren, Robert (Angel) Newman, Andrew Newman and Jennifer Newman. He also had 20 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.
Relatives and friends may visit the Morse Funeral Home, 19 East Main Street in Brocton on Thursday, March 5th from 11:00 AM-3:00 PM. A service with military honors will immediately follow at the funeral home. Private entombment will be in Sunset Hill Cemetery in Lakewood.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Northern Chautauqua Canine Rescue, 7540 North Gale Street, Westfield, NY 14787.
