Irene Otte retired Wednesday after working for West Hartford Public Schools Nutrition Services for 51 years.

By Ronni Newton

Irene Otte walked out the door of Wolcott Elementary School on Wednesday afternoon, hanging up her apron for the last time as an employee of West Hartford Public Schools, and was surprised and visibly moved as she was greeted by clapping and cheers from the entire school community that was waiting to send her off into retirement with thank you’s and good wishes.

Not only did Otte spend 51 years working in nutrition services for the district, but her entire 51-year career, which began in 1973, was spent at Wolcott.

Chants of “Irene-Irene-Irene” rang out and students waved posters and Otte – who no longer drives and was getting a ride home from Wolcott Principal Scott Dunn – smiled and waved from the passenger seat as they slowly drove through the bus circle where 375 students and more than 100 staff members, as well as Superintendent Paul Vicinus – were among those also smiling, waving, and cheering.

Dunn said Otte was extraordinarily touched by the outpouring of love and attention, and told him it was a “memory that she will hold dear.”

Cards and gifts were brought to her throughout the day, and in one grade every student brought in a single flower to combine into a large bouquet.

“She’s a super person,” said Tim Prosinski, director of Nutrition Services. “From what I understand she may have served children – and definitely went on to serve those children’s children – and I believe in a few cases went on to serve the original child’s grandchild.”

Prosinski said Otte was rarely absent from her job, and just a great staff member. Staff always says she’s “super warm-hearted, and just a great person” who loved being around the kids and never wanted to stop. “It’s tough to see her go,” he added, and it will be tough to replace her with someone who has the same kind of passion and warm and loving heart.

“Frequently at Wolcott we speak about one’s reputation and legacy and the impact of one’s words and actions on people within a community,” Principal Dunn said. “Irene’s dedication, sincerity, and love for all people cement an admirable legacy of which all of us at Wolcott are proud.”

“Her contributions have been vital in fostering a healthy, supportive environment within our schools,” said Sara Portal, Wolcott’s cafeteria manager.

“She has added to the culture and the sense of belonging of Wolcott, and what we saw here today demonstrates that – clear evidence of her legacy,” added Vicinus.

Lisa Hallenbeck-Farrah said she briefly worked directly with Otte at Wolcott and has gotten to know her in her role as Prosinski’s assistant. Expressing many of the same sentiments, she said, “[Otte] is just a lovely person … just a very dedicated, kind-hearted person.”

Like what you see here? Click here to subscribe to We-Ha’s newsletter so you’ll always be in the know about what’s happening in West Hartford! Click the blue button below to become a supporter of We-Ha.com and our efforts to continue producing quality journalism.