Otto Frank Dietrich

Otto Dietrich passed away on 1/08/2021 at 93 years of age. He was born in the Czech Republic on 4/30/1927 to Josef and Emilie Dietrich. He survived WWII in Germany and emigrated to Canada in 1951, where he married Philomena Heck, who had been waiting for him in Canada for 3 years.They lived in Grande Prairie, Alberta, until they moved with their 2 daughters to the U.S. in 1961.They lived in Iowa until moving to Oregon in 1999 to be closer to their daughters and their families. Otto worked at Alcoa from 1963 to 1991, retiring on his 64th birthday. Despite having limited formal education, Otto was a highly motivated learner throughout his life, with special interests in science and history. He was a human encyclopedia of European history. He worked in a variety of industries (lumber, construction, manufacturing) and honed his own skills in home-building and gardening, to make a series of homes for his family, with his wife alongside. Otto had a great curiosity about nature and life, and retained an enviable optimism and hopefulness, even under daunting circumstances. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, which made him a welcome addition to any gathering. He taught his two daughters, Angela and Marlene, how to play chess and ping pong, and instilled a love of travel. More importantly, he demonstrated the importance of honesty, responsibility and integrity. He was unwaveringly supportive of the endeavors of his daughters, who absorbed his determination and confidence. He was pre-deceased by his sisters Alma and Traudl, and his wife Philomena. He is survived by his daughters, Angela and Marlene; grandchildren Eric, Andrea, and Savanna; and great-grandson Jackson. A private family viewing was held at Canby Funeral Chapel. A celebration of life will be held when COVID restrictions are eased. Please share memories at CanbyFuneralChapel.com.