The Cheltenham Township Police Department is mourning the loss of Stephen W. Ott, Jr., who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 29. He was 92 years old.
According to his obituary, Chief Ott graduated from Frankford High School in 1950 and joined the Cheltenham Township Police Department at 21 years old. He was promoted from patrolman to sergeant in 1959, lieutenant in 1970, and chief in 1980, a role which he served for 21 years.
He retired in March 2001 as the longest serving police officer in Cheltenham Township history, his obituary said. During his 48-year career, he “spearheaded the modernization of the Cheltenham Township Police Department and was awarded a Bravery Commendation” alongside numerous regional, state and international recognitions.
Chief Ott graduated from the 101st session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy, served as President for Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association, and served on the Executive Committee for International Association for Chiefs of Police.
“Stephen’s colleagues knew him as an exemplary police officer, consummate professional, and a steadying role model for his department,” his obituary said.
From Chief Ott’s obituary:
In spite of his many professional accomplishments, Stephen’s greatest pride and purpose was his family and personal life. Stephen and Lenore married on April 27, 1957 and shared an extraordinary life together. They built their home in Cheltenham, where they welcomed three daughters, JoAnn, Linda, and Denise. For many years, Stephen worked two jobs, balancing a full-time law enforcement career with work as a country club groundskeeper and house painter. While Lenore dedicated her life to their children and her husband, Stephen attributed all he was and achieved to Lenore. Together, they welcomed all into their home, entertaining at Steve’s bar, the storied hub of many spectacular gatherings. The comradery and laughter will forever ring at 706.
Stephen found comfort and peace in his steadfast faith, the many lifelong friendships he built, and the outdoors. He was an avid skier who was happiest on top of a mountain on a bitterly cold, snowy day. He skied for many, many years until his 80th year.
Stephen was a man of honor, ethics and humility. He was a confidant to many, including his three daughters. He appreciated the little things and counted his blessings. He was deeply grateful for the life he worked so hard to build and especially thankful for his daughters and the love, care and comfort they brought to him. Stephen will be tenderly missed and forever remembered.
Services are to be held on Saturday, June 8 at Presentation BVM Parish, 100 Old Soldiers Road in Cheltenham. Visitation will begin at 9:30am and a funeral mass will be held at 11:00am, followed by burial at Lawnview Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Cheltenham Township Police Department.
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Photo: Legacy.com