Joshua Jerome Otterness, 44, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly at the end of August. Josh was born June 21, 1982, in Rochester, Minnesota, to Kari Pries and David Otterness.
Josh came into this world early, and he left it far too soon. In between, he lived with an energy that was uniquely his. He was charismatic, bold, intelligent, and sometimes a little ridiculous. He dreamed big, gave his all, and had a mind that was always moving. He loved excitement and adventure, but he also appreciated the quieter things; a deep conversation, a good book, time outdoors, or cuddling up with Cinder to watch a movie.
Josh was incredibly hardworking and took great pride in what he accomplished. He built a career as a maintenance engineer and boiler operator and worked hard to obtain his top-level boiler license, an accomplishment that meant a great deal to him. When Josh set his mind to something, he gave it everything he had.
Sports and the outdoors were a big part of Josh’s life. He started wrestling at five years old and went on to play baseball, football and run track. As an adult, he loved Colorado, skiing, kayaking, fishing, exploring the outdoors, and Minnesota sports, especially the Vikings!
Josh loved deeply and was fiercely loyal to the people he cared about. His family and friends meant the world to him, and when someone he loved needed him, Josh showed up.
And then there was Cinder. Josh loved Cinder more than words can really explain. He wasn’t simply his dog; he was his companion, adventure buddy, comfort, and best friend.
Josh was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Jerome and Alice Otterness; his grandfather, Robert “Bob” Pries; his uncle, Scott Pries; and his aunt, Bonnie McCreary.
He is survived by his parents, David Otterness (Julie) and Kari Pries; his sisters, Shauna Otterness (Rocky) and Ashlee Wilson (Jeremy); his nieces, Tiana, Lanaya, D’naesha, Malea, Thea, and Shaylee; his nephews, Carter, Calin, Jacob, and Geremy; his grandmother, Donna Pries; along with many other family members and friends who loved him deeply.
Josh packed a lot of life into his 44 years. He dreamed big, loved hard, worked hard, and lived life in a way that was entirely his own. There was only one Josh, and his energy, loyalty, and love will be deeply missed by everyone lucky enough to have known him.
A visitation will be held on Friday, September 11, from 9:00–10:45 a.m. at NewLife Community Church in Owatonna, Minnesota, with the service beginning at 11:00 a.m.
