One of the most well-loved and well-spoken eDiscovery community members, Charles Sommers Otto, affectionately known as Charley with a “Y”, has slipped his physical form, leaving a giant cavern where his formidable presence was felt by those who loved him.
Peering over his glasses and under his trademark bangs, Charley brought a gentle manner and sly mustachioed smile to every interaction. Conversations with Charley ranged from travel to music to performing arts. His network was broad, diverse and devoted. His introductions were polished like fine diamonds. This early eDiscovery community builder loved almost everyone he encountered, with most becoming fast friends and devotees for life.
My introduction to Charley came after we at Fios figured out we had been beaten in way too many sales opportunities by a shaggy, long-haired guy who could reach in and untie a closed sales opportunity like Houdini. I tried to recruit him and then he tried to recruit me to his beloved EED. Our hour-long conversation did not convince me to leave, yet convinced me that if I ever had the opportunity to work with Charley again, I would.
Later, Charley was part of building a dream team at SPi, one of the most forward-thinking early eDiscovery providers serving in house counsel. After SPi was sold to the Philippine Phone Company (not a typo), I got the opportunity to work with Charley at ZyLAB, where he agreed to come out of semi-retirement.
Walking the streets and skyscrapers of New York City with Charley was a treat, as he knew everyone, including the bartender at the Roosevelt who allowed him to host impromptu salons in their overstuffed furniture at their lobby bar. Practitioner after practitioner would sit in the seat of honor and Charley would make sure all were fast friends by the end of a wide-ranging conversation of personal, family and professional updates, with an eye toward connecting his beloved friends to further their joint interests. Charley was rooted at home with his family in Rhode Island and maintained an apartment in New York City to maximize his business time, see a few plays and eat some great meals with friends.
[Charley] is survived by his wife Carol Grant, son Will (Catherine Ferland) and daughter Molly. Also, sisters Ginny Van Dyke and Ruth Otto, brother-in-law Michael Grant, sisters-in-law Susan Krumm and Mary Dalrymple and nieces, nephews, grandnieces and a grandnephew.
Providence Journal Obituary
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In his memory, “help someone in tough times, play great music,” and consider supporting one of his treasured organizations: Providence Public Library, Providence Athenaeum. Community Music Works, AS220, and Trinity Repertory Theater.
My thanks to his wonderful friend, Chuck Kellner, for making the very sad call.
Rest in peace, Master Charles!
[Obituary at Legacy.com for Charley Otto.]
