Karen Ottesen:
CLASS OF 1961
Ogden High SchoolClass of 1961
Ogden, UT
Karen's Story
I was born in the old Dee Hospital on Harrison (red brick) on Sept. 23, 1943. The first school I went to was in Washington Terrace. During 1st grade we moved to 21st St. I then went to the old Dee School (Now li'l Audreys).
We moved again when I was in 5th grade. I then was bussed over to Lorin Farr School. I attended through 6th grade then went to Washington Jr. High.
Of coarse I went to Ogden High School all 3 years.
High school was fun. It's hard to remember. Just bits and pieces. I dated quite a bit during my sophomore year and Junior year. At the beginning of my Senior year Gene Ottesen came home from his mission. He was in my ward. I had heard his name before but had not met him in person.
. We dated all through my Senior year. He was attending BYU and we were writing during the week to each other. He would come home on weekends.
He was a member of the Utah National Guard 19th Special Forces. He went to Jump School and we continued writing.
He presented me with a diamond ring for my High School Graduation. We didn't have any money so I got a job in July working at the Telephone Co. in Ogden.
We were married on Nov. 15,1961. I was barely 18 and he was 23. I worked at HAFB for a year. Then found ou...Expand for more
t I was expecting. I remember I was so sick, that I had to quit my job.
We had a family of 5 children. Our oldest Randall, Shauna(deceased at age 15 in 1980 from leukemia), Mark, Julie and Teresa. It was hard trying to raise this family. Money was an issue. I went back to school at Weber state and took about a year of classes. I finally got into phlebotomy and was hired at McKay Dee Hospital in 1981.
Gene was working at the Weber County clerk's office, attending National Guard and serving in several bishoprics. We were very busy but we managed. Gene has a degree in Social Work. After working at the clerk's office, he worked at the ATC. and then as a Probation and Parole officer. He was a paratrooper for 40 years and recieved the rank of Seargent Major.
I have been a vocal soloist all my life. I love to sing. It lifts me up and helps me feel better about life. I have been in some fun groups and met lots of great people. I also have loved playing the piano. Same reason. Music is the best part of life.
We now have 15 grandchildren and are so greatful for our wonderful family.
We're doing very well. We are both retired now and life is slower. But that's ok too.
Hope you are all well and happy.
Have a great Day.
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