Otto J. “Sam” Probst, 98, died Sept. 17, 2018, at his home.
Otto was born in Broadhead on Nov. 22, 1919, to Joseph and Martha (Barth) Probst. Otto is a veteran of World War II and served as a medic in the China-Burma-India Theater with Dr. Gordon Seagrave’s medical unit. He distinguished himself by reaching the rank of staff sergeant and receiving a Bronze Star.
After his honorable discharge from the Army, he attended the ag short course at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. On Oct. 9, 1954, he married Milly Quaerna at First Lutheran Church in Janesville. In 1962 Otto and Milly purchased their Darien farm, which Otto continued to farm for the rest of his life. Additionally Otto had a career as a field manager for Libby’s and the Larson Co., retiring at the age of 71.
Otto and Milly had a life filled with adventure ranging from riding his and hers motorcycles to building and piloting their own airplane. Another highlight for Otto was the opportunity to take a Freedom Honor Flight to Washington D.C. at the age of 93.
Otto is survived by Milly, his wife of 63 years; two children, Kris (Phil) Strand of Westby, and John (Rose) Probst, of Delavan; four grandchildren, Jennifer (Chris) Aspenson, John (Katie) Strand, Samantha (Brion) Murdock and Joseph Probst; great-grandchildren Ellis, Jack, Addy and Eva; and siblings Frank Probst and Charlotte Jones.
Otto was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Paul Probst, Gloria Nagler and Sylvia Todd.
Funeral services will be Saturday at the Betzer Funeral Home in Delevan. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m.
