Otto Benjamin Frey

Otto B. Frey, 73 of Accord, NY passed away on Friday, January 7, 2022 at Westchester Medical Center surrounded by his family. Born on March 17, 1948 in Margaretville, NY, he was the son of the late Norman G. Frey, and Marjorie L (Hosier) Monington.

Otto served in the Army National Guard as an auto mechanic from 1970 to 1980. He continued his government service at the Federal Correctional Institution in Otisville, NY. During his 20 years of service, he played an integral role in maintaining the Federal Bureau of Prisons as a leader in the field of corrections. He began his career as a Correctional Officer and retired in October 2000 as Utilities Systems Repairer Operator Supervisor at FCI Otisville.

Otto was a certified licensed water treatment operator and was owner of Sylvan Glade Water Co., Inc. Besides his own treatment plant, Otto maintained several plants from Gardiner to Palenville and everywhere in between.

During his earlier years, Otto was very active with Indian Valley Little League, both as a coach and board member. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping with his family and friends. Throughout the years, he donated to the various youth and school-based sports programs where he spent countless hours watching the teams play. He was a proud supporter of his community and loved watching the parades and a good chicken bbq.

Known for his infectious smile, laugh and sense of humor, Otto especially loved spending time with his family and friends. He always looked forward to annual Easter gatherings, Super Bowl parties, and family get-togethers. Without question, he would give you the shirt off his back, always giving and never expecting anything in return. Need a Santa? Call Otto. Teen learning to drive? Call Otto. Weedwhacker, lawnmower, brakes need repair? Call Otto. He undoubtedly was a jack of all trades. His pride and joy was spending time with his grandsons. From teaching small engine repair, life lessons, to watching their games, going to get water samples, and then eventually becoming his chauffeurs, they truly were his right hand helpers.

Otto could talk for hours. In every conversation you were bound to hear his signature phrases, “you’re shittin’ me,” or “… and the whole 9 yards,” or “hey geek.” Otto was a happy go lucky guy that found pleasure in his interactions with others. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family and all who knew him.

Otto is survived by his son Jeffrey Frey and his son Joseph of Kerhonkson, NY; son and daughter-in-law Brian and Krista Frey of Accord, NY.; grandsons Caiden and Landen Frey, of Accord, NY.; former wife and lifelong friend Phyllis Ackerley, of Napanoch, NY.; sister and brother-in-law Priscilla and Raymond Barkman, of Schoharie, NY.; brother-in-law George Caswell (Shirley Sanford), of New Kingston, NY.; sister-in-law Phyllis Frey, of West Sand Lake, NY.; nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews, cousins, and many special friends who were extended family also survive. Otto was preceded in death by his parents, his step father Donald Monington, sister Patricia Caswell, and brother Norman Frey.

A celebration of Otto’s life will be held on Saturday, January 7, 2023 from 11am - 2pm with a service beginning at 1pm at the The Rochester Community Center, 15 Tobacco Rd, Accord, NY 12404. We invite you to join our family for beverages and light hors d’oeuvres. Otto never met a stranger. Please bring a short note highlighting your favorite memory of Otto or how you had the pleasure of knowing him for our memory jar.