Southeast Community College Board Member, Instructor Passes Away

BEATRICE - A longtime Southeast Community College employee and current member of the Board of Governors has died.

Steve Ottmann passed away Monday, in Crete, at the age of 73. A college board member since 2013, Ottmann taught developmental math at the College for nearly 40 years.

SCC President, Dr. Paul Illich issued a statement, saying, “Steve’s commitment and dedication to Southeast Community College is an inspirational reminder of the importance of living with a focus on service, grace and gratitude.”   Illich said Ottmann cared greatly for the diverse student and community populations performing his duties as an SCC Board member "with the highest integrity, thoughtfulness and selflessness.”

Richard Ross was dean of the Arts & Sciences Division during most of Ottmann’s time at SCC. He said Ottmann mostly taught math to the students in the technical trades, and was good with the students.

Ross said, “He was always looking out for the best interest of the College.”

Ottmann is survived by his wife of 53 years, Judith Ottmann, his three children and five grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 15, at Dorchester United Methodist Church.

Ottmann held a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He was active in the Nebraska Community College Association and the Association of Community College Trustees.