Otto Lee Nemecek

Otto Lee Nemecek, affectionately known as "Toot" passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026 just one day shy of his 97th birthday. He was born on April 11, 1929, the eldest of four sons to Francis and Johana (“Jenny”) Nemecek.

Otto lived a full and meaningful life rooted in family, hard work, and community. On May 5, 1951, he married the love of his life, Joan (Lorenski), with whom he shared 74 devoted years until her passing in May of 2025.

He pursued his education in accounting at Aquinas College and proudly served his country in the U.S. Naval Reserve. Otto built a long and respected career at General Motors in Wyoming, Michigan, where he worked as a Master Craftsman in Die Making until his retirement in 1982.

 Outside of his profession, Otto embraced a wide range of passions. He enjoyed farming, particularly raising beef cattle, and found great joy in bowling, boating, waterskiing, and fishing. He was a skilled woodworker and had a deep love for auto restoration—his favorite project being a 1966 Oldsmobile 98, which he later generously donated to charity.

Otto was also dedicated to giving back to his community. He volunteered with Coopersville Cares and was an active member of a group of men known as “The Lumberjacks,” who worked together at local museums restoring antique artifacts.

He is survived by his brother Ivan and five of his children: daughters Paula (Richard) and Christina Beveridge; and sons Michael (Barbara), Brian (Blanca), and Gregory (Dreama). Sister in laws, Marge Crowley, Barbara (Bob) Crowley, brother in law Ed (Diane) Lorenski. He is also lovingly remembered by his 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, who were a cherished part of his life. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Joan; his parents, Francis and Jenny; his brothers Lawrence and Leon; and his daughter Deborah and brother in law John Crowley.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16 from 3-6 P.M. at Throop Funeral Home, 214 Church St. Coopersville, MI 49404. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 A.M. Friday, April 17 at St. Michael’s Church, 17150 88th Ave, Coopersville, MI 49404 with Fr. Michael Hodges celebrant. Burial will take place in St. Michael’s cemetery. For a lasting memory of Otto please consider memorial donations to the Muskegon Rescue Mission, Attn: Gift Processing, 2735 E Apple Ave Ste D Muskegon, MI 49442. Condolences for the family may be left on Otto’s guestbook at www.throopfh.com.

Otto’s life was one of quiet strength, dedication, and generosity. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Throop Funeral Home

Coopersville, 616-837-8161