Paul Rodney Ottoson, 81, of Springfield, passed away at 4:04 a.m. on Thursday, February 22, 2024, at Lewis Memorial Christian Village.

He was born in Jamestown, NY, on August 25, 1942, the son of Roland M. and Evelyn Geertson Ottoson. Paul married his high school sweetheart, Carolann Smith, in Erie, PA, on March 28, 1964. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Paul graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a Bachelor's of Science in Finance. He went on to Bucknell University where he received his Masters of Science in Business Administration. While at Bucknell, he was a Graduate Assistant Scholarship recipient, received the William G. Follmer merit award, and was elected to Delta Mu Delta National Honors Society in Business Administration. After working for several different CPA firms, he formed Ottoson and Co., P.C. in Springfield. He was a member of the AICPA, ILCPA Society, and NYSCPA Society. He was also a frequent speaker at Illinois Home Care Council. Paul also enjoyed building and flying model airplanes. After relocating to Springfield, he became an avid Chicago Cubs and Bears fan.

Paul was also preceded in death by two daughters, Cheryl Ann Ottoson-Farley and Charlotte Ottoson.

He is survived by his wife, Carolann of Springfield; three children, Paul Rodney (Dale) Ottoson, Jr. of Land O'Lakes, FL, Pamela Renee (Paul) Griffin of Rowlett, TX, Christine Ottoson Sexton of Springfield, IL; son-in-law, Curtis Farley of Indianapolis, IN; brother, Lawrence Ottoson of Spring Hill, FL; eight grandchildren, Ariel (Blake) Jenkins of Springfield, John (Nia) Sexton of Springfield, Peyton, Aaron, Allison, and Madison Farley all of Indianapolis, IN, and Christian and Zachary (Sarah) both of TX; one great-grandchild, Bentley Jenkins; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Cremation was provided by Lincoln Land Cremation Society.

Family will host a Memorial Ceremony on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church, 2477 W. Washington St., Springfield, with Pastor Linda Strader officiating. A meal will follow in the Parish Life Center.

Burial will be held at a later date at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Indiana.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church in Springfield.