Gerald R. “Jerry” Otten, 65, of Columbia, died April 5, 2014 in Columbia.

He was born Nov. 24, 1948, son of Leroy H. and Billea Otten, nee Hack, of East St. Louis.

He was a U.S. Army Vietnam War veteran, recipient of the Bronze Star Medal, member of the Waterloo VFW and retired from Illinois Central Railroad. He enjoyed camping and fishing with his good friends from Main Street in Waterloo. Jerry’s life was a train ride blessed with family and friends who supported him through his battle with cancer.

Survivors include his mother Billea Otten, nee Hack; brothers and sister Roy (Diane) Otten, Marvel (Teresa Rusteberg) Otten, David (Ellen) Otten and Rosalie (Allen) Kern, along with nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father; nephew Terry Otten and great-niece Lindsey Otten.

Per Jerry’s request, there will be no services.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois.