Ottilie O'Haver

Ottilie “Tillie” O’Haver

October 23, 1933-August 12,2025

It is with great sadness that the family of Ottilie O’Haver announces her passing. Tillie was born in Sudetenland, Czechoslovakia and lived there until the end of WWII, when her family was forced to flee their home with only a few minutes notice. They made their way to Sinsheim, Germany, where they were sponsored by the town butcher and lived in the attic above his shop. Though she only had five years of formal education, Tillie was well-read, spoke three languages, and was an avid learner. She traveled to America on the USS Darby in 1957 and became a citizen in 1964.

Tillie met the love of her life, Mike O’Haver, in 1961 while working as a waitress at the Village Townhouse Restaurant in La Mesa, California. She first took notice of him as he left a very substantial 25 cent tip. He became a faithful customer, then friend, then loving partner throughout their nearly 61 years of marriage.

Always the socialite, Tillie was the quintessential hostess and loved to entertain. She had life-long friends which she met through her many social outlets; the German Club, German Choir, Our Lady of Grace choir, Safari Club, Inc., Cotillion, and her many years in the family business, Lyons and O’Haver Taxidermy. She was a lifelong volunteer as well, including, but not limited to “Room Mother,” “Team Mother,” PTA, and Blood Donor, for which she was recently honored. She always made time to help others, and always with a smile and kind words.

Tillie never forgot a face or a name which is a true testament to the many friends she made. She was always open to a new adventure, even spending time hiking and rock climbing. She once started a gourmet club, which contributed to her talents as an amazing cook. She kept active with daily walks, and shopping and was always “on the go”. She loved theater, music, and dancing. She and Mike were a joy to watch as they moved gracefully across many dance floors. She loved her time with family and friends and entertained often in the beautiful homes she created.

Tillie is preceded in death by her brothers, Hans and Otto, and sisters, Paula and Mitzi.

She is survived by her husband Mike O’Haver, her children, Delores (James) Lyons, Herb (Manuela) O’Haver, Ken (Joan) O’Haver, Betsy Filipponi, and Mike Filipponi. Her memory will live on with her nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, all who loved her dearly and will miss their “Omie” very much.

A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, September 2nd at 2:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in El Cajon. A celebration of life will be held immediately following.

Tillie will be interred at Miramar National Cemetery in a private ceremony.