Viva H. Ott

Viva Heloise Ott, age 99, of Escanaba, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Wednesday morning, April 17, 2019 at Christian Park Healthcare Center in Escanaba, surrounded by family. She was born on August 27, 1919 in Albion, MI, the daughter of Leon and Carrie (Jourdan) O’Dell. Viva was raised and graduated from Washington Gardner High School in Albion, MI in 1936. During WWII, Viva was one of many “Rosie the Riveters” in Lower Michigan to support the war effort. The former Viva O’Dell married Laurence Robert Ott on May 29, 1948 in Angola, IN and he preceded her in death in 1989. Together, the couple shared many years of marriage and raised 4 children, Cheryl, Larry, Michael, and Christine. Viva was employed by Birds Eye Veneer Company for several years before spending her life caring for her husband and children. Viva was deep in her faith as a member at Calvary Baptist Church in Escanaba. Her life was spent in service to our Lord with countless hours in prayer for her family that they would all know the joy of salvation found in Christ alone. A quiet person, Viva was focused on eternal things, knowing that one day, just as all things and worldly accomplishments would, as she would, pass away. Her life of 99 years was but a “vapor” here on earth in comparison to eternity. Truly Viva’s life has left us a “vapor trail” in our hearts and will be deeply missed.

Viva H. Ott is survived by children, Cheryl Cox of Rockford, IL, Larry Ott of Fort Lauderdale, FL, Christine (Ken) Sandstrom of Hilliard, FL, Michael (Joy) Ott of Escanaba, and Mary Ott of Gladstone; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Viva was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Harold Cox; 1 great-granddaughter, Clara; 1 sister; and 2 brothers.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Thursday, April 25, 2019 at the Anderson Funeral Home in Escanaba. Funeral services celebrating the life of Viva will follow at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, in the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Brian Swillum officiating. Burial will take place immediately following the funeral services in Gardens of Rest Cemetery. A luncheon will be served at the conclusion of the graveside services in the Calvary Baptist Church fellowship hall in Escanaba. 

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