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PATRICIA COTTER Obituary
Patricia Lee Cotter, 59, died at Sunset, Saturday, September 12, 2009 at home with her family and friends.
She was born in Oregon, to Dennis J. and Elizabeth L. (Stryker) Canny. She married, raised three children, spoiled seven grandchildren and cherished all of her dear friends. She graduated from Arcata High School, completed coursework at College of the Redwoods and went on to receive her BA and Masters from Chico State University.
She leaves her parents in Redding, CA; sister, Vicky Canny in Kodiak, AK; children, Angela and Scott Miller in Ogden, UT, Derrick and Sonja Cotter in Fortuna, CA, and Jeb and Tess Cotter near Miranda, CA; and grandchildren, Destiny, Lucas, Kaylee, Kyle, Cora, Ava, and BreAnna. She also leaves nieces, nephews and many dear friends (her extended family).
A barbeque celebrating Patty's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, October 25, 2009 at the Scotia Inn. Please RSVP ASAP 801-689-2590. Patty wouldn't want anyone to go hungry!
Arrangements are under the direction of the Neptune Society of Northern California, Chico branch 530-345-7200. You may send condolences online at www.ChicoER.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for PATRICIA COTTER
October 26, 2009
Dear Angela, Derrick, and Jeb, It has been a great joy to have known your mother. Starting from the time Angie and I went to school together in the mid 80's and got to know each other through 4-H our lives had intermingled. Patty asked me to join a group at her house that taught me about crafts. She made it a lot of fun and as others have mentioned her cheerful attitude was just a part of who Patty was. There were sleep overs too when I was that age and that is the only memory I have of sleeping under a cow hide blanket. Angela, the boys and I played out in the pasture sometimes. Then somewhere in there they all moved out to Salmon Creek and even there Patty made sure I got a chance to come stay and go woodcutting with the family. Patty always rose early in the morning and made us wonderful breakfasts. Years later Patty and I crossed paths when she and I were both attending CR and I also could count on seeing her smiling at her fair booth in Ferndale. She was very special mentor/friend and she will be greatly missed. Sincerly, Wyly Steeves(Amado)
Wyly Steeves
October 26, 2009
Dear Angela, Derrick, and Jeb, It has been a great joy to have known your mother. Starting from the time Angie and I went to school together in the mid 80's and got to know each other through 4-H our lives had intermingled. Patty asked me to join a group at her house that taught me about crafts. She made it a lot of fun and as others have mentioned her cheerful attitude was just a part of who Patty was. There were sleep overs too when I was that age and that is the only memory I have of sleeping under a cow hide blanket. Angela, the boys and I played out in the pasture sometimes. Then somewhere in there they all moved out to Salmon Creek and even there Patty made sure I got a chance to come stay and go woodcutting with the family. Patty always rose early in the morning and made us wonderful breakfasts. Years later Patty and I crossed paths when she and I were both attending CR and I also could count on seeing her smiling at her fair booth in Ferndale. She was very special mentor/friend and she will be greatly missed. Sincerly, Wyly Steeves(Amado)
October 25, 2009
To: Angela, Derrick, Jeb and Patty's extended Family,
As I'm sure you know personally and have heard from many others, your mother was a special person. She had a joy for life that was very contagious! Her personal faith was important and she loved each of you very much. Grandchildren were a particular blessing to her.
Your Mom and I had many conversations while she was a student at Chico. I had the privilege of going to Long Beach with her to see the California State University Trustees present her with their highest academic achievement award.
At a point in her studies when finances and time where both very tight and her degree had a high priority, Patty gave me Doxie, her horse. I rode Doxie for six years and came home with a smile on my face after each ride. It became important to give Doxie back to your Mom. Together Doxie and your Mom enjoyed some regular round pen work.
Your Mom was such a rich blessing in so many lives including mine. Have fun at the BBQ and think of the joy she shared with so many. In spite of difficulties, your Mom know how to live life and give to so many others.
Bob Hannigan
Corvallis, Oregon
Carolyn Morton
October 22, 2009
I am so sad, yet so honored to have been frineds with Patty. She was with me thru many trageties. We were friends for 15 yrs. We met thru a mutual friend and remained friends until her death. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to have said good-bye before her passing. Last summer, even tho she was ill she helped me plan my second wedding. I told her my ideas, and even though I'd seen her talent many times she completely out did herslef. There are no words to express my gratitude. I miss her badly. I know she is in a better place, her faith was huge. Thank you to the family for including me in theirs.
Carolyn
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October 10, 2009
Patty was a vibrant womn who lived in the now and was very passionate about issues which were about fairness and justice for those who were not as fortunate in our society. While a Re-entry student at Chico State she was very effective in letting administrators and Faculty know about the special needs of older students who had returned to complete their academic, career and Life goals! She was honored at our Re-entry banquet for her receiving the prestigious Rawlins Award and made thoughtful contributions to our statewide, intersegmental group named: C.A.R.E. (California Advocates for Re-entry Education), which included U.C., CSU, Community College and Private Universities' representatives. Patty was a great friend and special person who I will miss and remember for the rest of my life. May God Bless her and her loved ones, With Peace & Love, Tom R. Sawyer--Teacher, Counselor, Adviser and Coordinator for Re-entry Student Services (1970-2002 at CSU, Chico
Tom Sawyer
October 10, 2009
Patty was a vibrant womn who lived in the now and was very passionate about issues which were about fairness and justice for those who were not as fortunate in our society. While a Re-entry student at Chico State she was very effective in letting administrators and Faculty know about the special needs of older students who had returned to complete their academic, career and Life goals! She was honored at our Re-entry banquet for her receiving the prestigious Rawlins Award and made thoughtful contributions to our statewide, intersegmental group named: C.A.R.E. (California Advocates for Re-entry Education), which included U.C., CSU, Community College and Private Universities' representatives. Patty was a great friend and special person who I will miss and remember for the rest of my life. May God Bless her and her loved ones, With Peace & Love, Tom R. Sawyer--Teacher, Counselor, Adviser and Coordinator for Re-entry Student Services (1970-2002 at CSU, Chico
Melanie Carlson
October 9, 2009
I am not sure I can find the words to express how much of a true friend Patty was. My life was a richer and more beautiful experience for having had her luminous presence in it. I will never have another friend like her again. Thank you so much for having been in my life lady.
Melanie Carlson
Sharon Nelson-Miller
October 8, 2009
To the Canny and Cotter Family:
The irony of this is that today I was googling online looking for Patty's sister Vicki, a long lost friend and to my dismay I came across this obituary. I am a firm believer that God works in mysterious ways, especially when Patty is in his presence. Patty was my first roommate in 1971 and it was then I discovered what a wonderful and beautiful person she was. Her intuitive, loving nature was infectious and she had a natural grasp of what "unconditional" love was all about. We lost touch many years ago, but I never forgot her beautiful spirit, no matter how hard times got for her, she had a knack for bouncing back with an amazing zest and enthusiastic bounce for life. Her spirit shall always live on in her children and grandchildren, may God Bless you all.
Sharon Nelson-Miller
October 8, 2009
Today, something led me to looking for Patty's sister Vicki online and I found this article about her passing - I believe God works in wonderous ways, although I am deeply saddended by this news, I have not seen Patty since the mid-late 1970's - I fondly remember Patty as my first roommate in Arcata in 1971, and what a special spirit she had. Patty had a gift of optimism and a heart full of love and an inate sense of unconditional love for everything. I am sure she continued to bless her family with those wonderful traits throughout her life. I can see her now, and finding this obituary is not an accident - she had a hand in it - it was just the way she was and always will be.
Colleen and Chuck Snowden
October 7, 2009
We have all lost a great ray of sunshine from our lives. Patty brought the light and smiles with her everywhere she went. I don't think I have ever met a more open, loving and honest person than Patty was.
The short time that she worked for Fluhrer Bakery, she had more fun "fluffing and stuffing" the bread. This is what she call stocking the shelves.
All who knew her will greatly miss her. Patty was a special person to each of us in many different way. May you rest in peace dear Patty.
Rita McAtee
October 7, 2009
I worked with Patty way back when at Miller Farms. She introduced me to my first flower arranging of which I still like doing. She, Vickie and I had some great times. Patty was always fun and upbeat. I will miss her.
Carol Burr
October 6, 2009
I met Patty when she came to Multicultural and Gender Studies from Agriculture. She was excited about the Women's Studies program and brought her tremendous enthusiasm to the program. I never met anyone with more joy for living or more generosity in sharing that joy. She was full of ideas and knew how to make them become real.
I am saddened that she is no longer able to bring her energies and insights to our community and our world, but her spirit will definitely live on. I feel blessed to have known her.
Sincerely,
Carol Burr
Linda Kelty Dudzic
October 6, 2009
Patty was one of those wonderful classmates from the Class of 67 who made a newcomer feel welcome, and was always a joy to be with. She sparkled!
John Regli
October 6, 2009
To the family of Patty Cotter:
I was shocked and saddened to learn of your loss of Patty.
I had Patty in many of my classes at College of the Redwoods (maybe 10). She was an excellent student and a good friend.
I remember Patty for her endless energy and love of learning; she just kept going on and on and on! She was great to have in classes, especially as a role model for students half her age; they admired her dedication and she was so willing to help them whenever she could. I can't remember her ever seeing anything as an obstacle, only an opportunity; she loved a challenge!
You could always depend on Patty to have a smile on her face, and a smile in her voice.
Your loss is great, but I'm sure you can celebrate what a wonderful and challenging life Patty had lived.
Please accept my most sincere condolences.
LiAne Bell-McBroome
October 5, 2009
Patty was a great friend. I am grateful to have had the chance to know her.She will be missed. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Jon Fretland
October 5, 2009
I'm so sad to read that Patty has passed away she was a dear friend. I will always remember her smile. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Button Thomsen
October 5, 2009
My earliest memories of Patty began at Sunset School, but more specifically I remember our participation in ‘Blue Birds,’ which her mother had organized and which was held in Patty’s home. I remember making candles in milk cartons for Xmas, and Patty and I sprinkling glitter on them for decoration. This is a funny thing to remember, but I guess I remember it because Patty and I had such fun making a ‘mess.’
Our friendship continued when we sat next to each other in choir/madrigal for years at Arcata High School. Patty had such a beautiful strong voice, and led all of us sopranos in song. When we were not singing, we talked and shared our thoughts about boys, dating, and all the challenges of being a teenager. Patty was always ‘real,’ and never unkind, phony, or superficial. ‘What you saw is what you got’ with Patty, and she was indeed very special. I valued her friendship.
When I married, I remember receiving some pillowcases that Patty had personally embroidered, and which she sent to me in Canada. She was always thoughtful, even when it took effort.
I also remember Patty standing on the picnic table at Patrick’s Point State Park for our class 50th birthday party to lead us in singing ‘Happy Birthday’ to ourselves. I remember learning that parts of her life had not been easy, and I was awed by her positive and upbeat attitude in spite of difficulties.
Patty was an awesome person. She made the world a better place. I will always remember her smiling. Bless you Patty.
Sincerely,
Button Thomsen
Joni Lewis
October 5, 2009
I knew Patty at Chico State while working in the College of Agriculture office. Patty had such energy, kindness, and passion - especially when it came to women in agriculture, education, and politics. We had many wonderful conversations. She will be missed greatly.
Brandy Irish
October 5, 2009
Patty was a great friend and wonderfull mentor to a lot of people and she will be greatly missed. everyone will miss her smile and the way she could brighten anyone's bad day! hugs to her family.
JOHN AND JUDY Peterson
October 4, 2009
WE HAD NOT SEEN PATTY FOR A FEW YEARS. SHE WAS ALWAYS HAPPY TO SEE OLD FRIENDS, ALWAYS HAD A GREAT SMILE. WE REMEMBER ONE THING SHE DID IN 1972, DRESSED UP LIKE THE EASTER BUNNY, TO SURPRISE OUR SON GARY ON EASTER MORNING. WHAT A GREAT GAL, WE WILL MISS YOU PATTY. OUR CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY. JOHN AND JUDY PETERSON ARCATA, CALIF.
John/Judy Peterson
October 4, 2009
We have been friends for many years.
Happy trails Patty.
Eunice Sanborn
October 4, 2009
To the Cotter Families: I was so sad to read of Patty's passing. She was a great person.
I worked closely with her at the Humboldt co. Fair for several years. She was a ray of sunshine each year when she came to set up the Ag Building. Her many visits to the office were always such fun. Four of my Grandchildren worked for her during their high school years and loved every minute of it. When I retired she gave me a lovely gift, which I still use and think of her every time I do.
She was to be admired for the drive she had to finish her education.
My sympathy to all of you...she will be greatly missed.
Mike Renner
October 4, 2009
Too all the Cotter Kids,
I enjoyed Patty so much, and got to know her very well working at the Humboldt Co. Fair, we had great times together. She was such a great person.
My deepest sympathy to all of you in this time of need. I want you to know that Patty had my deepest respect and admiration.
Respectively:
Robert Titlow
October 4, 2009
To all the Cotters: I was saddened to learn of Patty's death. I so admired her educational pursuits as a single and struggling mother and the rewards that brought her. She wrote me several times expressing her enthsuiasm of how the world had opened up to her. To have discovered education late in life is so to her credit.
Her canny talent with animals and her love for t hem was also impressive. My sympathy to everyone.
Cousin Bob Titlow
Elisa Edgington
October 4, 2009
I am sad to hear about Patty's passing. I had many wonderful memories of her while working at the Humboldt Co. Fair when I was in high school. She was a wonderful boss, always happy and fun to be around. Condolences to her friends and family during this difficult time.
Rich and Edie Sobieraj
October 4, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Renae Renner-Alejandre
October 4, 2009
I worked many years at Humboldt County Fair with Patty. We lost touch when she moved to Chico but I thought about her often. She was a wonderful person and will be sorely missed. My condolences to her family.
Mary Paita
October 4, 2009
Dear Canny Family,
I am so sad to read about Patty. I remember the Canny girls at Sunset School. They were always so sweet, well groomed, and had very supportive parents.
Vicky was in my class and she was a delight. I could always depend on her.
Derrick was also in my class and was a sweet boy who always tried his best.
I'm proud of Patty for her success in going to college and getting her degrees.
You have my deepest sympathy. It's just not right for parents to outlive their children ( or for teachers to outlive their students).
I'm sorry we can't make it to her memorial in Scotia. We now live in Montgomery Creek, near you in Redding.
I'll be thinking of you and your wonderful family.
Sincerely,
Mary Olsen Paita
Jean Rea Lynch
October 4, 2009
I was saddened to hear to news that Patty has passed on. Patty always had a smile and a hug for me and my husband Pat. We were able to share some time together a few years ago in Ferndale, and I enjoyed sharing about our lives since leaving Arcata High in 1967. Patty was a one of a kind, and will be missed. Our condolences to all.
Neptune Society of Northern California
October 3, 2009
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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