John

Otruba

LANCASTER, SC ~ John William Otruba, 72, was born September 24, 1954, passed away on November 12, 2026, leaving behind a family who loved him dearly and memories that will be cherished forever.

John was the son of the late John and Nora Otruba. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to serving others, beginning with a distinguished career as a New York State Trooper. After retiring from the force, he continued his commitment to public service as a K-9 officer with the Lancaster City Police Department in South Carolina. His many years in law enforcement reflected his strong sense of duty, dedication, and desire to protect and serve the communities he called home.

Outside of his career, John had many interests and passions. He was an avid reader with a particular love for history, especially military and war history. He had an incredible wealth of knowledge and was always full of interesting, and sometimes rather useless, facts. Game nights were always a challenge, as John's sharp mind and impressive knowledge made him nearly impossible to beat!

John also enjoyed hunting, gardening, and spending time outdoors. Whether pursuing his interests, sharing his knowledge, or enjoying a friendly game night, he brought intelligence, enthusiasm, and his own unique personality to everything he did.

John will be remembered for his dedication to serving others, his love of learning, his quick mind, and the many special qualities that made him who he was.

Above all, John was a husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Linda Otruba; his sons, John Otruba (Jennifer), Clayton Otruba (Heather), and Brandon Warner (Rebecca); his daughters, Angela Otruba and Jacquelyn Otruba (Lee); fourteen grandchildren, Sophie, Tessa, Ella, Nora, Eva, Johnny, Clara, Jaylynn, Mason, Baylor, Nolan, Alyssa, Anna, and Leah; and one great grandchild, Alice.

John is also survived by his siblings, Steve Otruba, Richard Ortuba, Jeffrey Otruba, Michael Otruba, and Brenda Gates. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews who will also cherish his memory. John was predeceased by his parents, and a sister, Valerie Baker.

Though his passing leaves an immeasurable emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him, his legacy will live on through his family, the lives he touched, and the memories made along the way.

John will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

An online guest register is available for condolences on the obituaries page at www.burgessfunerals.com.

Burgess Funeral Home and Crematory of Lancaster is caring for the family of Mr. John Otruba.