Ottio returns to Tatana

THE body of Kato Ottio was released to PNG Hunters coach Michael Marum by the Koiaris at Funeral Home in Erima yesterday enabling the family to bring it to Tatana village.
In a sign of respect, the Koiaris allowed Ottio’s Kumul and Hunters coach to lead a motorcade to the family home.
Marum thanked Ottio’s father’s family for their understanding and consideration. Marum and the Hunters team handed over the casket to the immediate family in a moving welcome at Tatana.
On behalf of the Ottio family, Motu Koita Assembly chairman Opao Udia welcomed the body to the family home for the relatives and close friends to pay their last respects before the burial today.
“We thank everyone for their understanding and for contributing in one way or the other in this time of grief,” Udia said.
“The people of Tatana have shown a great deal of respect for this young man with their decision to have Kato’s grave to be in a special place away from the village cemetery.”
The departure from the Funeral Home and arrival at Tatana was quiet despite involving a good number of people. The arrival of the motorcade at Tatana village was greeted by hundreds including family, friends and locals holding banners and placards with signs welcoming the body.
Ottio will be laid to rest at midday today.
The body will overnight at the family home and in the morning there will be a final public viewing from 6am-8.30am with a funeral service at 10am.