Allie Otto Masters

Allie Masters (1943-2016) In Loving Memory of my Mom Allie Masters passed away one year ago, July 23, 2016, of natural causes in her Sun Lakes, Arizona home. She was 72. Friends and family also knew Allie as Aljean Otto (maiden), and Aljean Mittelstadt (married 1965- 1986). She changed her name to Allie Masters in 1989. She was a loving, giving person with an infectious laugh and smile. She was a mother of 2, Amy Christine and Peter D’Arcy. Words to best describe Allie: supportive, thoughtful (never forgetting a birthday or an occasion), witty, intelligent, an amazing Mom, and best friend. She gave with all her heart, never asking for help even in times of need. It was no surprise she was born on Thanksgiving in 1943. She could cook on this day like no other; her unforgettable roasted chestnut dressing, cream cheese mashed potatoes, basted turkey and you can’t forget the pies. Yum. Some of her notable achievements would be raising their 2 kids, earning her MBA at age 43, and being involved with organizations that advocate for others. Working for the State of Arizona, she helped create and implement programs assisting Baby Boomers, Veterans, and aging adults with career development. Allie loved having deep, meaningful conversations with her daughter and close friends. She was known for her knowledge and interest in world affairs and politics. Allie was a Democrat; an unlikely choice, growing up in an all Republican household. She voted in every election and was politically charged, especially regarding women’s rights and humanitarian issues. MSNBC was one of her favorite channels. She didn’t live to see the presidential outcome in November 2016. Boy, that would have been the topic of many a conversation. Allie had a love of “feel good” movies, especially the Hallmark channel. She loved a good laugh and a good cry. Some of her fondest memories were of playing in the snow with her young kids and dogs, skiing on weekends at Telemark, and spending quality time with those she loved. Allie was a huge football fan, religiously following the Wisconsin Badgers (her Alma Mater) and the Green Bay Packers (attending the Ice bowl in 1967). Aljean Otto was born Nov. 25, 1943 in Chicago IL to parents Franklin and Alice Otto. She attended boarding school @ Monticello College and maintained those friendships through the years. She completed her BA in English @ UW-Madison in 1965. She spent the summer of ’65 with girlfriends travelling throughout Europe, on occasion sleeping under the stars and exploring art galleries and museums that she had only studied in books. This was one of her most treasured adventures. She married Homer Mittelstadt of Eau Claire, WI that same year. She worked as a Family Living Editor for the Leader Telegram in Eau Claire until their first child, Amy Christine, was born in 1967. Their second child, Peter D’Arcy, was born in late 1968. In 1970, the Mittelstadt’s built a beautiful home in Eau Claire, out in the country. In 1974 the family purchased an old restaurant/bar which they converted to a cabin in Cable, WI. The cabin was located on picturesque Little Bass Lake. The family would spend winter weekends skiing at Mt. Telemark and summers canoeing, waterskiing, and playing tennis. Aljean and Homer taught their 2 kids to ski at a very early age. Aljean was a graceful and competent skier. There were many an adventure that occurs in No. WI; you could expect nightly visits from bats in the cabin, mice in the walls, and can’t forget the mosquitos and deerflies. There wasn’t enough “OFF” in the world to protect you. Memorable moments. In the early ‘70’s, she organized events and fundraisers for women’s rights. While raising their kids, Aljean also worked as a legal secretary for her husband Homer, an attorney, and as a realtor. She returned to school and earned her MBA in 1986 from UW-Eau Claire. She and Homer finalized their divorce that year. She and her son moved to Boulder CO, in 1986, daughter Amy was beginning college in Eau Claire. She later moved to San Diego and legally changed her name to Allie Masters in 1989. When her Mother became ill, she moved to Sun City, Arizona to take care of her. Allie purchased a home in Sun Lakes, AZ and lived there till the day she died. Her passing was unexpected, as she had not been ill. She was making plans to move to Utah to be closer to her daughter and son-in law. Allie (Mom) was a bright light in so many lives. She is missed terribly. May we all cherish the memories we shared with her. Allie is survived by her daughter, Amy (Rob) Pierce of Utah, and son Peter (Alexis) Mittelstadt of Vermont; grandchildren Isabelle, Finnegan and Lilyanna, brother Wayne (Janet) Otto of Colorado. ~