Obituary
Steve Otto, 89, of Lee’s Summit, MO., died on Feb. 5, 2026, at John Knox Village Care Center in Lee’s Summit, MO. He had lived with Alzheimer’s disease in recent years.
Steve was born on May 27, 1936, to Louis Y. and Merle I. Otto in Columbia, MO. He attended the University Laboratory School, graduating from University High School in 1954. Steve married Virginia Durrett in April, 1958. He graduated from the University of Missouri in June, 1958 with a BA in Speech and Drama (TV production). After a tour with the US Army, he worked for KOMU-TV in Columbia, WPTA-TV in Ft. Wayne, IN, and KETC in St. Louis.
Steve worked in the health claims administration field, first with St. Louis Blue Shield, then as claims administrator of the MO Medicaid Program for the State of Missouri. In 1972 he moved to Kansas City to work for Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW), the Federal side of the Medicaid Program, where he stayed until retirement from the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) in 1994.
After performing over 30 roles in community theater with Northland Civic Theatre, Northgate Theatre, Bell Road Barn, and NAE Theatre, Steve discovered the joy of telling stories. He began to tell to everyone who would listen. When offered early retirement from the government, he became a full time professional storyteller. He was one of the early organizers of “River and Prairie Story Weavers” and has told stories all over the country. He was the Missouri liaison for the National Storytelling Network, active in promoting storytelling as a teaching tool in schools and organizations. He also served the Gladstone Area Chamber of Commerce.
He was a member of Fairview Christian Church where he served as an Elder. Most recently, Steve was a member of Lee’s Summit Christian Church. He was a youth friend for North Kansas City Schools, a Scout leader in Troop 389, and a regular blood donor with Community Blood Center where he donated over 34 gallons.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Virginia; two sons, Kirk (Jean-Marie) and Craig (Rebecca); four grandchildren, Hannah Kramer (Tre) of Oklahoma City, OK, Grace Filer (Adam) of Dunstable, MA, Emma Auger (Christopher) of Kansas City, MO, and Vincent (Dana) Otto of Bismarck, ND; four great-grandchildren, a niece, and four nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Marilyn Otto Burk.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Langsford Funeral Home in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made in Steve’s memory to Lee’s Summit Christian Church or to the River and Prairie Story Weavers of Kansas City.
Condolences
Visitation
Lee’s Summit, MO 64063
Services
Lee’s Summit, MO 64063
Steve was a good friend and a great man. He loved storytelling and we all enjoyed his many stories. Sending prayers to Virginia and her family.
I have always loved Steve so much. One of the truly kindest people I’ve ever known. He will be missed greatly. I’m sorry for the loss.
My sincerest condolences to you and the family. I greatly enjoyed learning from Steve’s vast store of storytelling knowledge. He was the sweetest and kindest man.
Steve was a kind and gentle soul. He brought joy to so many with his story telling skills. He will be remembered.
Steve taught me from a young age about acting and stories. I loved to listen to him on Sundays. That didn’t stop as I grew up. He inspired me then as he does now.
Virginia, I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your sweet, Steve. Doug and I always enjoyed Steve during our year at Fairview. Prayers of peace and comfort coming your way.
I always enjoyed telling with and listening to Steve. He was such a gentle person and he will be missed.
Let the arms of the loving God hold all family of Steve tightly. I met Steve through his time and service at Fairview and enjoyed his wonderfully ebullient nature. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Although I’ve moved away, I try to keep up with people at church-Virginia, I am so sorry to hear that you lost your husband- I am praying for you and your family
I first met Steve through the mutual work he and John did at HHS in Kansas City,Mo. Many good times spent with both Steve and you Virginia at the evening dinners with the Fed group. Steve always talkative and happy, generous and thoughtful, kind and sometimes just plain fun to be around. Steve loved life, cherished his wife, boys and his grandchildren. He represented a deep love for the Lord and made that a true witness for all to see. We will miss you but always hold special memories. Condolences to each of you. Sandra and John Woody