Cotter Jerry

Gerald M. "Jerry" Cotter, 68, died Sunday November 21, 2010 at his residence after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 4, 1942 in Napoleon, Ohio to the late Clarence and Mary (Myles) Cotter but lived in Toledo many years of his life. On October 30, 1965, he married Judith (Judi) Gilliland who survives. Jerry was a Journeyman Steamfitter for Local 50 working approximately 40 years for various contractors until retirement. He was proceeded in death by his parents, an older brother John (Sandy) Cotter, and an older sister Judy Doniere. Surviving are are his three children, sons Nick (Melissa) Cotter, Tony (Shauna) Cotter, daughter, Susan (Rick) Bearer, all of Napoleon, and grandchildren, Allison,Ryan, Madeline, Casey, Camryn, Erica, and Emily. Also surviving are sisters Joni Kahn of Texas , Cathy Allen, and Mary Ann Biddle both of Georgia. Jerry was an avid sports fan with a passion for golf, where he spent much of his leisure time. Nothing made him happier than playing golf with his friends and swapping stories and quarters when the round was over. He was a loyal supporter and fan of all of his grandchildren during every sporting event and school activity. At home, he loved reading his latest book and watching the Detroit Tigers or Lions with his faithful dog, Joey. After retirement, Jerry loved to volunteer his time and became very active in several service clubs and organizations. He held many officer positions as a member of the Napoleon American Legion Bert G. Taylor Post 300 and, most recently, served as commander. Jerry was a founding member of the Napoleon Men's Club that raised funds for the community and provided scholarships to college bound members of the Napoleon High School's golf team. He was also a member of the St. Augustine Catholic Church in Napoleon, the Lions Club, the Napoleon Elks, and the local Historical Society. Jerry and his wife also had the opportunity to spend winter months in Florida with family and friends. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 23 from 2:00 – 8:00 pm at Rodenberger Funeral Home of Napoleon. Funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, November 24 at 10:30 am at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Napoleon. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Memorials can be made Henry County Hospice, the Henry County Historical Society, St. Augustine School, or to a charity of the donor's choice.

Tributes

Cotter Jerry

November 21, 2010