Brian Alexander Ott
May 22, 1958 – July 15, 2018

Brian Ott, 60, of Coupeville, Washington passed away suddenly at home in his sleep on July 15, 2018. He was born “at a very young age” (Grandpa Ott) on May 22, 1958 in Berkeley Heights, New Jersey.

He is survived by his mother, Marion Ott; his sister, Alyce Mayer; brothers: John and Allan Ott; daughter, Shannon Cox; and two grandchildren: Tanner and Owen Cornett.

Brian lived on Whidbey Island since the year 2000, originally in Clinton. He bought his “retirement” house in 2016 in Coupeville, which he lovingly shared with his fiancée, Melinda Buchholz, and her daughter, Katie.

Brian served in the US Army as a vehicle mechanic for 4 year. He continued his civilian career as a mechanic at Boeing, where he garnered many awards and accolades for his innovative contributions. He retired as a ‘Systems Loadable Software Manufacturing Engineering Technician’ after 30 years.

Shannon and her Dad shared a love of target shooting and cars. They completely rebuilt Shannon’s first car – a VW Bug. His love of “go fast – turn left” was instilled in his grandsons, who loved to cruise around his 5 acres on mini-bikes or on Grandpa’s quad.

Brian loved “all things fast:” cars, planes, motorcycles, hydros – anything with wings or wheels. He and Melinda shared a love of traveling, especially to coastal Mexico and tropical beaches. Katie and Brian shared a special connection, and had so much fun riding the tractor around the property.

Brian loved working with his hands. He was incredibly skilled in woodworking, building several beautiful pieces of furniture. He had a green thumb, growing fruit trees, vegetables, and his beloved peppers, which he used to make a salsa that would make you sweat.

Brian will be remembered for his gentle spirit, staunch patriotism, and generous heart.

If we can take anything away from this heartbreaking loss, it would be to dream big, love bigger, and don’t put off until tomorrow what can be done today.