In Celebration of

Gunter Burkhart Otto

March 9, 1930 - December 10, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gunter Otto, 94, on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at Parkland on the Glen.

Gunter was lovingly attended to by his sons in his final weeks and his passing was peaceful and calm, with ‘the boys’ by his side. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Ann in 2021.

Always generous and considerate, and a man of great integrity and honour, Gunter was an exemplary role model in his family life and professional affairs.

Healthy and active throughout his life, Gunter faced his recent health challenges with characteristic grace and dignity.

Gunter was a loving and involved husband, father and Opa. He will be greatly missed by his sons Doug (Lisa) and Ken (Julie), and his grandchildren Alex, Christine, Jack and Geoffrey. He will be especially remembered for his attentiveness and interest in every aspect of his family’s lives.

Gunter’s highly successful career reflected the talent and discipline of the man. Most notably, he was President and Chief Operating Officer at Cara Operations Ltd. In addition, he was an Adjunct Professor at the University of Guelph’s School of Hotel and Food Administration. After retirement, Gunter spent many productive years at CESO (Canadian Executive Services Overseas) placing volunteers around the world.

A special thank you to the staff at Parkland on the Glen for their kindness and care.

A private burial service was held at Springcreek Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Trillium Health Partners foundation or the charity of your choice.

Guestbook

(4 of 4)

Iris Horton (Next door neighbor on Falconridge.)

Entered December 14, 2024 from 284 Bloor Street W 505 Toronto

Doug and Ken.,

So very sorry for your loss. My condolences. Thanks Iris

Esther Lee (I worked directly for Gunter Otto at Cara Operations Ltd in Corporate Training)

Entered December 16, 2024 from Toronto

Dear Ken and family,
I read of your father recent passing, and just wanted to tell you how sad I was learning of this news. He was such a pleasure to work for, and I learned much about the food & beverage side of the hospitality industry from him and my time working with CARA.
Rest in Peace.
Sincerely,
Esther

Michael Nightingale (Hospitality Industry Colleague)

Entered December 17, 2024 from Guelph

In the late eighties and early nineties I had the opportunity to interact with Gunter Otto many times. He was a compassionate and effective industry leader, who mentored many executives who continue to practice his exemplary leadership skills.. His contribution to hospitality education was stellar,, in particular the support he gave to the School of Hotel and Food Administration as Chairman of School's Policy Advisory Board for its Executive Development Programs, served as an Executive in Residence and an Adjunct Professor. His legacy to the hospitality industry has been impactful

Michael Nightingale, Former Director of the School of Hotel and Food Administration.

brenda gilligan (Business & Friendship)

Entered February 6, 2025 from Mississauga

I would like to express my sincere condolences in the loss of your beloved father.

Your mom and dad had a profound effect on my life and became a guiding light for how I wished to be treated as a woman.

I represented them in the sale of their house on Falconridge and the purchase of their condo at Port Street.

I just loved watching their interaction with one another and the incredible respect and admiration they had for one another.

Your father was such a gentleman and they were so kind, elegant and wise. I have since retired and spend most of my time in Australia but I wanted you to know what an honour it was to have met them.

They will each always hold a loving spot in my heart. God Bless each of them and may they Rest In Peace.

Sincere Sympathies,

Brenda Gilligan