Brother Otto Thole OSB

Brother Otto (John Anthony) Thole OSB, born on June 13, 1937, in Moorhead, Minnesota, was the third of four children. Following his brothers’ example, he attended Saint John’s Preparatory School (1951–1955) and entered the Saint John’s Abbey novitiate in 1955. He professed as a Benedictine monk in 1956 and took his solemn vows in 1959.

Brother Otto began working in the Saint John’s Printing Department, then shifted to roles in plumbing, car maintenance, and technical support. From 1967 to 1980, he served as a missionary at San Antonio Abad Priory in Humacao, Puerto Rico, where he managed maintenance and earned an HVAC certification. He also studied Spanish to assist in his missionary work.

After returning to Saint John’s, he worked at the Liturgical Press and served as a prefect at Saint John’s Preparatory School. Later, he trained as a physical therapist assistant, providing care for elderly monks, and coordinated medical appointments for retired confreres until 2017.

Known affectionately as “Toot,” Brother Otto was recognized for his humor, flexibility, and generosity. He took on diverse responsibilities with humility and a kind-hearted spirit, always welcoming others with a smile.

Brother Otto passed away on December 11, 2024, in Albany, Minnesota. May God reward him.