Otto Jech, Executive Vice President of Georges, Dies at 86

Otto Jech, one of the longest-tenured employees of Springdale poultry company George’s Inc., died of a heart attack March 6 in Springdale. He was 86. Jech began his career with George’s in 1951, and he was named executive vice president of the company in 1980, a title he held until his death.

“Otto’s knowledge and his valuable insight throughout the years were vital to the growth of our company,” Gary George, chairman of the company, said in a statement. “He was involved in all aspects of our operations, and his talent and guidance will be greatly missed.”

Jech, an Oklahoma native, began his poultry career working with his brothers in their father’s chicken coop building business. In 1951, he was hired by George’s to oversee a chicken farm for company founder C.L. George.

Jech delivered chicks, worked in the hatchery, was a broiler serviceman and oversaw the cattle operation during his early career with the company.

Throughout the years, he worked alongside Luther and Gene George wherever needed and was involved in every operational area of the company.

“Having been hired by our founder, Otto had an incredible depth of knowledge about the history and the operations of this company,” said Carl George, co-CEO of the company. “He was instrumental to our company’s success.”

Co-CEO Charles George added: “Otto was a man of integrity and he was highly respected. We will miss leadership and friendship greatly.”

Jech’s wife of 68 years, Helen Jech, also died on March 6 in Springdale, just a few hours after her husband, according to the obituary. She was 85.

A funeral service for both through Westfield Chapel Funeral Home of Springdale is scheduled for 1 p.m. March 10 at First Assembly of God Church in Springdale.