Bruce Otto

Class of 1954

Bruce was born and raised in Tomah. He graduated from Carroll University double majoring in math and chemistry. He then received a PhD in organic chemistry at The Ohio State University. He continued his education at Stanford University’s Business School.

Dr. Otto’s entire career was at the Amoco Corporation in the Chicago area. He began as a research chemist, working on the development of gasoline additives, receiving two patents. He also held several managerial positions including Manager, General Manager and Vice President. He served on the Chemical Industry Council of Illinois as Vice President and President. Bruce also was Chairman of the Council for Solid Waste Solutions. Additionally, he chaired Amoco’s United Way campaign for several years.

Bruce valued hard work, education, family, volunteerism and giving back. He served on Carroll University’s Board of Trustees for 8 years and was instrumental in the growth of the college and increasing alumni support. He and his wife, Evie, established several endowed science scholarships there. He served on the Chemistry Board at The Ohio State University. Bruce was a Leadership member of the Boys Scouts of America and volunteered for many years for Habitat for Humanity and his church’s thrift shop.

After retiring, Bruce spent winters in Florida and summers in Wisconsin. He played tennis and golf weekly, scoring 2 holes in one. He loved to fish. He tied his own flies and made his own fishing rods, returning to Tomah with his family every May for the opening day of trout season. Bruce passed away in 2016.