Dear Pilgrim Day Camp Community,![]()
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of former Pilgrim Day Camp Director Richard “Dick” Otte. Dick was not only a beloved leader but also one of the foundational figures who helped shape the PDC you all know and love today.![]()
It was at Pilgrim where Dick met the love of his life, June Larsson. Soon after, they were married, and Dick began his teaching career in the Brockton schools. Summers, however, were dedicated to Pilgrim Day Camp, where Dick served as Director, leaving a lasting impact on generations of campers and staff.![]()
In 1975, I was fortunate enough to meet June as we attended college together. It was through her that I met Dick, who hired me as the Athletic Director at PDC. I later became his Assistant Director, and for the next six years, Dick and I forged an inseparable friendship. I learned so much from him as the camp grew and evolved under his leadership.![]()
Dick and June have two wonderful sons, Ben and Jared, of whom they are immensely proud. Both Ben and Jared loved Pilgrim, first as enthusiastic campers and later as leaders, following in their parents’ footsteps. This summer, it brought me great joy to see Dick’s grandchildren Colby, Bayla, Micah, and Tristan enjoying PDC—a legacy that began with their grandparents so many years ago.![]()
We’re fortunate to have Dick’s written evaluations and annual reports from his years as Director. His words from 1977 still resonate today, a testament to his timeless vision for camp. We will cherish his memory and the immense contribution he made to Pilgrim Day Camp.![]()
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“At the end of my fifteenth year at Pilgrim Day Camp and my third year as Director I feel that camp has come a long way. I also feel that 1978 will be crucial for the camp. Two years ago, substantial changes and innovations were made. It is time again to look forward. No institution can succeed if it does not move forward. Pilgrim Day Camp must continue to develop and innovate ideas…It must be noted that the successful accomplishment of these objectives must be attributed in large part to the staff. Their tireless effort and unflagging sense of responsibility to the campers and to the camp program went far beyond contractual agreements. The 1977 staff was a truly exceptional group of people and by far the most important resource of Pilgrim Day Camp."![]()
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I became Director in 1980, and since then, I have done my best to carry on the traditions that make Pilgrim Day Camp such a special place. Above all, I have tried to remember that a PDC summer is a unique and meaningful experience for both campers and staff—a time we are truly fortunate to share together.![]()
Dick and June started it all, and it is now up to us to keep it going in a way that would make them proud. I miss my friend, Dick Otte. - Jon Kirby![]()
www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/southport-nc/richard-otte-11992354
Our indoor playground is having a preview opening for anyone who signs up for our parent playgroups! After the teacher led playgroups come join us inside and test out the toys and give us feedback to improve the space before we officially open! Sign up with the link in bio. Or check our stories. Can’t wait for everyone to check it out soon. #indoorplayground #communitykangaroo #metrowest #ashland #natickmoms
Don’t forget to save the date! Interested in being a volunteer, performer, sponsor, or vendor!? Email us at pdcfamilycenter@sneucc.org or message us!! We can’t wait to see old and new friends!!! #metrowest #fallfestival2024 #massachusettsevents
Another rave review for our nature explorer program! Try it Thursday October 3. We still have spaces available. Or join our parent playground at 9:30 for a glimpse of the curriculum! #framingham #ashland #metrowest #communitykangaroo #NatureExplorers
No school Thursday? No problem!! We’ll be hosting teacher led playgroups AND Nature Explorers. We’ll do one big playgroup at 9:30-10:30 and then our drop off class will be 9:30-1:00! Join us for outdoor fun and exploration.
Rainy weekend? Need to get out of the house?? Come to our playgroup at Pilgrim Day Camp! We host them every Monday and Thursday from 9:30-10:30 and 11:00-12:00. After the playgroup you’re encouraged to stay, play, and even bring a lunch or snack! There’s so much for everyone. Playgroups are led by Ms. Courtney our certified preschool teacher and outdoor aficionado click here for the easiest sign up link! calendly.com/pilgrimdaycamp/teacher-led-playgroup![]()
. #playgroupsmetrowest #ashland #natick #southboro #wayland
Save the date for our 2nd Annual Fall Festival!!! We’ve got a lot of new and fun things in store for you and your family. All are welcome, new and old friends! Can’t wait to see you there #fallfestivalma #metrowest #ashland #familyfun #communitykangaroo #familyeventsma
Parent Playgroups are so much fun and so easy to sign up for! calendly.com/pilgrimdaycamp/teacher-led-playgroup ![]()
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MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS!
Happy Monday! It’s a beautiful day to play outside and meet other caregivers and kids at PDC. To sign up click the link in our bio- it’s a fast and easy sign up link! #ashland #natick #wellsley #metrowestfamilies calendly.com/pilgrimdaycamp/teacher-led-playgroup