Obituary of Frederick Julius Ottavelli

Frederick Julius Ottavelli, born on June 23, 1937, in Bellevue, Washington, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2023, at his home in Olympia, Washington. The son of Ercole Ottavelli, an Italian immigrant who arrived at Ellis Island on the Dante Alighieri in 1920, and Evelyn Ottavelli, Fred was a man whose life story was woven with his Italian roots, resilience, community spirit, and deep familial bonds.

A proud alumnus of the University of Washington, Fred earned a BA in Economics in 1960, followed by a Master's degree. His career at the Utilities and Transportation Commission spanned over 30 years, with an additional decade of consulting, reflecting his dedication to public service. Additionally, he served on the Washington State Employees Credit Union Board of Directors from 1963 to 1983, further highlighting his commitment to his community.

Fred's love for Washington Huskies football was unparalleled, holding season tickets for 59 years, a legacy that lives on through his family. He was also an original Seattle Seahawks season ticket holder, a reflection of his passion for football and community spirit.

Fred's early professional life was marked by living at "Empty Arms," a renowned residence on Capitol Hill in Olympia, known for housing political insiders and respectable troublemakers, and cultivated enduring friendships and a fierce loyalty to those he held dear. This loyalty was especially evident in his lifelong bonds with his friends, brother Ron, and cousin Frank, with whom he spoke daily.

His marriage to Charlotte, spanning 58 years, was a testament to love and companionship. Together, they navigated life's journey, never once faltering in their devotion to each other and their family. Fred and Charlotte’s home was a hub of warmth, marked by Fred's Italian heritage, where he often indulged others with his love for cooking, especially Italian cuisine, bread, and desserts.

Fred's annual pilgrimage to Napa with family wasn't merely a wine expedition; it was a celebration of shared moments and enduring connections. His love of the "Rat Pack" era's music echoed his own charm and charisma. He loved to read, having a lifelong appreciation for “literature,” with a particular fondness for the works of Louis L'Amour and Robert Parker.

Fred is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Deanna Ottavelli Kilmer, and her husband, Jason; son, Craig Ottavelli, and his wife, Amy; and his grandsons, Rainier and Grayson Ottavelli, who shared a unique and profound bond with him.

Fred's passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His life, marked by generosity, unshakeable support for his loved ones, and the myriad ways he enriched the lives around him, will continue to resonate. His absence will be profoundly felt, yet the legacy of his warmth, wisdom, and laughter will persist as a source of comfort and inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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