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Ivan Cotman Obituary
Detroit - Dr. Ivan louis Cotman was born April 4, 1940 to the late Louis and Marguerite Kaine Cotman in Detroit, Michigan. He was baptized and confirmed at Old St. Mary's Church in Greektown, where he attended grade school; he was a long-time member of the First Unitarian-Universalist Church of Detroit.
Ivan graduated from Detroit's Salesian High School (1958) and from Kentucky State University (1962) with majors in Social Science and English. He received an M.A. in Social Work from Clark Atlanta University in 1964 and an Ed. D from Wayne State University in 1975.
Ivan married Jeanetta Hawkins Cotman, the love of his life, on August 18, 1964. From this union three loving sons were born: Ivan, Arthur, and Amir.
Ivan transitioned on March 4, 2019 following a full and enjoyable life. In addition to his wife and sons, he leaves to cherish his memory: two daughters in law; Rene and Cassandra: four grandsons Brandon, Jacob, Gray, Amir, Jr; three granddaughters, Janae, Chloe and Allie. Visitation:Friday at J.A. Cole 16100 Schaefer Hwy. and Funeral Service at 11 am Sat @ First Unitarian Universalist Church of Detroit 4605 Cass Ave.
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Memories and Condolences
for Ivan Cotman
Anna Chloe
May 30, 2019
We never got a chance to meet you but I'm sure you were very nice. Farewell.
Sybil Offen
March 16, 2019
A very special man who who made the world a better place with his actions!
Tracey Martin
March 11, 2019
In all my years of active membership in (then) First UU of Detroit, Ivan (whom I addressed fondly and playfully as Ivanhoe) was one of the co-congregationalists most fun to be with. He was also one of the most intellectually acute and calmly insightful men whole company I was pleased to share. I delighted always subsequently in the occasional opportunities I enjoyed to associate with him again. And was disappointed that I could not persuade him to become a member of the Farmington church too. I have at least my memories. Tracey Ann Martin, since 1988.
Charles Murphy
March 10, 2019
My condolences to you. I am also a fellow High School class member of Ivan and remember him well. It is no surprise to me to see that he achieved such academic and personal success. In high school he was the best dressed student in class. He was also the most focused student in class. In many ways he set the example for being a gentleman. I know his family will miss him. I will keep Ivan in my prayers.
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March 10, 2019
My condolences to the Cotman family. I remember Ivan as being one of the more studious and serious persons at Salesian High, a good guy with a sense of where he was headed in life.
May he rest in peace.
Edsel Moore
Salesian High Class of 1959
Charlotte, NC
March 10, 2019
Prayers and condolences from the Salesian H.S. alumni for our 1958 graduate and his family.
James Doll
March 10, 2019
I remember Ivan Cotman from many years ago. We were in the same class at Salesian High School in the mid 1950's. As I recall he was a very good student and also an equally kind person. My condolences to the family at this difficult time.
Steve Spreitzer
March 10, 2019
My thoughts and prayers are with the Cotman family as you mourn the passing of your brother, husband, father, grand father, etc. I met Ivan in the mid 90s and early 2000s when he attend our Interfaith gatherings (NCCJ-now MI Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion). I thank the Creator for Ivan's joyous curiosity.
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James H Cole Home for Funerals, Inc. - Northwest Chapel16100 Schaefer Hwy, Detroit, MI 48235
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