Michael Otto

Michael Otto passed away peacefully surrounded by family on January 23, 2026, at his home in Clitherall, Minnesota.

He was born on May 22, 1952, in Alexandria, Minnesota, to Alfred and Helen (Ledermann) Otto. Michael was baptized in May of 1952 and confirmed in 1967. He graduated from Brandon High School in 1970.

Following high school, Michael moved to Minneapolis, where he worked rebuilding motors. In 1977, he married Joan Lien at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Urbank. That same year, he purchased a farm in Garfield, Minnesota. After several years of farming, he transitioned to owning and operating his own trucking company and worked with several gravel companies throughout his career. He was also a member of the Christian Labor Association in Brainerd, Minnesota.

In 1995, Michael and his family purchased 427 acres in Clitherall, where he and Joan raised their family. Together they cultivated and maintained the riding stables, campground and rodeo that is now Silver Sage Guest Ranch. Although he retired in 2021, he continued to play an active role on the ranch by raising cattle, helping with horse management, keeping up the lawns, and serving as a camp host. In 2022, his family launched what has become the annual Silver Sage Pro Rodeo, which supports local first responders and other community organizations.

Michael found great joy in meeting new people and making them comfortable at the ranch, and seeing the rodeo bringing joy to all the crowds and contestants. He could always be found in the outdoors and spending time with loved ones. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, horseback riding, golfing, attending rodeos, and taking vacations with his family.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents; brother Norbert; sister Bernedette Kluver; brother-in-law Harry Davis; brother-in-law Bob Lien; three nephews and a niece.

Michael is survived by his wife of 48 years, Joan; his children Craig (Nicki), Randy (Lindsey), Dustin; granddaughters Paisley, Ella, Addison, and Josie; siblings Dave (Joanne), Clarence (Diane), Jim (Karen), Joan Davis, Kathy (Roger) Nowaski, and Jean (Mike) McCauley; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. 

Michael’s life was marked by hard work, dedication to his family and community, and a deep appreciation for nature and rural life. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers the family would prefer trees that can be planted on the Silver Sage Ranch & Campground. 

Please contact Swedberg Nursey, Battle Lake, MN: 218-864-5526

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael Otto, please visit our floral store.