M. W. Brother Otto Hugo Hohly was born September 8, 1868 in Toledo, Ohio, the son of Frederick Hohly, a doctor of medicine, and Pauline Kirchmaier. He received his education in the public schools of Toledo. Being of an artistic nature, it was quite natural that his interests were directed to the field of architecture, and eventually he became a partner in the firm of Langdon and Hohly. This partnership contributed much to the building of Toledo, and Ohio as well. Evidence of the work done by this partnership is viewed by everyone who visits the, Ohio Masonic Home in Springfield, where they played an important part in the planning of this Masonic activity.
He married Mabel Nuneville of Toledo to this union a son was born, Father Harold Frederick Hohly, rector of Christ’s Episcopal Church in Bronxville, New York. By religious preference M. W. Brother Hohly an Episcopalian, and was a member of St. Marks Church, Toledo, Ohio. Despite his active business life Otto found time to serve his fellow citizens, holding the office of service director for the city of Toledo for some time.
He received his Masonic degrees in Rubicon Lodge No. 237, Toledo, and served as Worshipful Master in 1911.
Shortly after his service as Master he was appointed to the office of District Lecturer (now known as District Deputy Grand Master) which office he held until his appointment as Junior Grand Deacon in the Grand Lodge of Ohio. He advanced each succeeding year through the various offices of the Grand Lodge and served as Grand Master in 1928.
He was member of Fort Meigs Chapter No. 29, R. A. M., Toledo Council No. 33, R. & S. M. and was knighted in Toledo Commandery No.7, K.T., serving as Eminent Commander in 1921.
During these years of activity in York Rite Masonry he also managed to devote time and take part in the Scottish Rite of our Order. He petitioned and received his degrees in the Valley of Toledo in the year 1909. Here he served as Thrice Potent Master of the Miami Lodge of Perfection, 14°, from 1924 through 1927, and as Commander in Chief of Toledo Consistory S.P.R.S., 32°, from 1927 through 1933. At Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on September 16, 1919, he was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, Honorary Member of the Supreme Council.
He was a member of Zenobia Temple, A.A.O.M.S., Toledo, Ohio, and served as its Potentate. He was a Past Monarch of O-Ton-Ta-La Grotto No. 40. Toledo Chapter, O.E.S., numbered him among its membership.
During the latter years of his life he was an untiring worker in Scottish Rite Masonry and for many years held the office of Dramatic Director. To a considerable degree the work done in the Valley of Toledo is a testimonial to his efforts and abilities. His interest in this work is evidenced by the fact that he had taken an active part in every reunion since receiving his degree in 1909.
M. W. Brother Hohly departed this life on September 12, 1959. Memorial services were held at Trinity Episcopal Church, Toledo, Ohio, on Tuesday, September 15, 1959, with his son, Father Frederick Hohly, officiating. His body is interred in the Toledo Memorial Park Cemetery Mausoleum, Corridor A-2, Crypt 16, Toledo, Ohio.