In Memoriam: Arthur E. Otten, Jr.

Otten Johnson mourns the loss of one of its named partners and esteemed attorney, Arthur E. Otten, Jr. Born on October 11, 1930, in Buffalo, New York, Art peacefully passed away on February 2, 2024. He earned his B.A. from Hamilton College in 1952 and his J.D. from Yale Law School in 1955. Following law school, Art served as an Air Intelligence Officer and Legal Officer in the U.S. Navy for three years before making Denver his home in 1958, marking the beginning of his illustrious legal career, which he began at the firm led by Joe Hodges Sr. before joining Davis Graham & Stubbs in 1973.

Art joined Johnson, Robinson, Neff, and Ragonetti in 1986 adding his name to the marquee. For more than 20 years, he served as the chief outside counsel for Colorado National Bank, exhibiting unparalleled expertise in corporate, banking, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory, securities, and insurance law. He was a trusted advisor to the boards of directors of both public and privately held corporations.

Throughout his career, Art actively participated in various committees of the Denver, Colorado, and American Bar Associations. He also dedicated his time to the Denver Mile High Rotary, holding the position of president in 1992-93. Art embodied a generous spirit, characterized by his genuine, gracious, and easy-going nature. He epitomized a true gentleman who valued the importance of a balanced life.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Art was a devoted family man and is survived by his wife Mary, five children, and eight grandchildren. A funeral Mass in his honor will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, Feb. 9th, at Risen Christ Catholic Church, located at 3060 Monaco Parkway, Denver, CO 80222, followed by a reception at the church.

To commemorate Art’s legacy, memorial donations can be made to Risen Christ Catholic Church for their church renovation project or a charity of the donor’s choice. The legal community and beyond will fondly remember Arthur Otten for his invaluable contributions and steadfast commitment to legal ideals and community service.