Martin (Marty) Charter Ott, a dedicated husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, great grandfather and veteran, passed away April 23, 2023, at the age of 75. He was born May 28, 1947, in Panguitch to Faye Palmer Ott and McCune Charter Ott.
Marty attended Utah State University before marrying his loving wife, Ilene Anderson, Jan. 3, 1970. Together they raised two children, Matthew Charter Ott and Lee Ann Ott Grundy, and were blessed with two grandchildren, Carson Ott Grundy and Addison MaeLynn Grundy.
Marty proudly served his country as a veteran of the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Bronze Star for his bravery and service. After the war, he began a long and distinguished career with the National Park Service, serving at many national parks throughout his career, including Fire Island National Seashore, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Theodore Roosevelt NP, Olympic NP, Big Bend NP, Capitol Reef NP, Wind Cave NP, Utah State Coordinator for the Utah National Parks and Zion NP. He also served as the deputy director of the Utah Department of Natural Resources. Martin’s dedication to his work and bravery earned him the Carnegie Medal and the Park Service Valor award.
Marty’s last assignment before retirement was with the Bureau of Land Management as the state director for the state of Montana and the Dakotas. He worked tirelessly throughout his career to preserve and protect America’s natural treasures, leaving a legacy that will endure for generations to come.
In retirement, Marty enjoyed exploring the beautiful surroundings of his home in Kanab, riding horses and motorcycle touring. He was also an avid animal lover, and he cherished his black lab, Ally, who preceded him in death, as well as the other dogs he had throughout his life.
Marty was preceded in death by his parents, McCune and Faye Ott, and his brother, Gary W Ott. He is survived by his wife, Ilene; his children, Matthew Charter Ott (Cindy Morris-Ott) and Lee Ann Grundy (Cody Grundy); his grandchildren, Carson Ott Grundy (Raven), and Addison MaeLynn Grundy; his great-grandchildren, Clancey Lee Grundy and McCuen Bown Grundy; and his sisters, Kathy Chamberlain (Brent) and Kristine Williams (Danny).
Martin’s love for his family was evident in everything he did, and he cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and his memory will be treasured by all those who knew him.
Martin’s dedication to his country and his lifelong commitment to preserving America’s natural beauty will never be forgotten. His family and friends will miss him dearly, but they take comfort in knowing that his legacy will live on through his work and his loved ones.
Services will be held at the LDS church in Tropic, Saturday, April 29. The viewing will be held at 10 a.m. with the service at noon. Interment will be held at the Georgetown cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Lewy Body Dementia Association.
Services were arranged with Mosdell Mortuary of Kanab.
