Chayse Ott, a beloved senior at Watervliet High School, passed away at the age of 17 following a tragic car accident on Sunday, September 28, 2025.
He was a member of the class of 2026 and a valued player of the boys’ varsity football team.
The Watervliet community is grieving the loss of Chayse Ott, who passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from injuries sustained in a car accident.
He was transported to Bronson Hospital, where he fought for his life before succumbing to his injuries.
Chayse was known for his spirit and determination both in the classroom and as a valued member of the boys’ varsity football team. His peers and teachers described him as a kind and talented individual with great potential.
He was a loving son and brother whose warmth touched all who knew him. His untimely death has left a profound impact, a heartbreaking reminder of life’s fragility.
Chayse painted the sky so pretty for us tonight. You will for forever be missed Chayse but never forgotten. We will make sure to honor your name in every way we can. You are so loved by so many people. Fly high bud. Until we meet again. ❤️🩹
Ben Hess
Chayse Ott’s Family Mourns the Tragic Loss
Chayse Ott, the son of Nick Ott and Courtney Ott, was born in 2008 in Watervliet, Michigan. His parents married on June 17, 2017.
His parents raised him in a close-knit family alongside his sister, Alexys Hess.
Chayse Ott was a beloved son, brother, and friend, who passed away on Thursday following injuries sustained in a car accident.
His time was tragically cut short, but his life was dedicated to faith, strength, and selfless love. He was an angel in street clothes, and his gentle spirit and kind heart left a lasting impression.
In recent years, he had delved deeply into his faith, finding great comfort and strength in his favorite Bible verse, Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.“
Moreover, Chayse’s incredible legacy of compassion continues in his passing. In a final act of profound generosity, he became an organ donor.
Through this selfless gift, he will save the lives of six to eight individuals, allowing his legacy of love and life to live on through others.
Just want to thank everyone for the continued thoughts and prayer you guys are all amazing but we still have a long road ahead so please keep them coming.
Nick Ott
Chayse is now at peace in the arms of his Savior.
His family and the entire Watervliet community are grieving this immense loss, yet are united in celebrating a young man whose spirit touched so many.
Watervliet High School encourages the community to come together to support Chayse’s family and friends during this difficult time.
Chayse may no longer be physically present, but his spirit will forever surround us.
He leaves behind a legacy of friendship, unwavering faith, and the unforgettable spirit of a young man who will never be forgotten.
21, have fun up there in heaven, you lit the sky up for us tonight to tell us you made it, we all needed that. We got Mom, Dad, and Alexys down here…❤️🩹
Madalyn Hutchins
A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Please keep the Ott family in your thoughts and prayers.
Rest easy, Chayse, you’ll never be forgotten.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Nick Ott has been a delivery driver and supervisor at Dr Pepper Snapple Group since April 20, 2024.
- Courtney Ott attended John Adams High School and later studied at Brown Mackie College.
