Michael Cotter

Michael "Mike" Cotter Sr., age 78, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. Born on April 21, 1947, in Detroit to Thomas and Adeline (Kern) Cotter. Mike was raised in Redford alongside his five siblings: Karen, Tom, Al, Debbie, and Dan. A proud graduate of the Thurston High School Class of 1965. Mike's early life was marked by service; he was drafted into the United States Army in 1967 and honorably served his country in Korea along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).

Upon his return stateside in 1969, Mike settled in Livonia to raise his family. He was a cornerstone in the lives of his children, Liz (born 1974) and Michael (born 1978). He never missed a game, event, or milestone. Following his military service and a series of early roles, Mike began a career at General Motors. It was here that he met Diane Schuster; the two were married on March 3, 1989. This began a 36-year adventure that together, they built a life defined by travel-notably their annual March pilgrimage to Puerto Vallarta to celebrate their anniversary-and a shared love for dogs, which ensured their home was never without a "furry companion."

Mike retired in 2009, but his most rewarding "job" began in 2007 when he became a grandfather for the first time. He found immense joy in this role, especially during the years he helped care for his eldest granddaughter, Caroline. In his leisure time, Mike was an avid golfer who achieved a lifetime milestone with a hole-in-one in 2011. A steadfast Michigan Wolverines fan and classic car enthusiast, he was a regular at the Dream Cruise and Crusin' Hines, always seeking opportunities to bring family and friends together.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Diane; his children, Michael (Jennifer) Cotter Jr. and Liz (Jon) Corser; and five grandchildren: Quinn Corser, Caroline Cotter, Preston Corser, Andrew Cotter, and Zachary Cotter. He also leaves behind his siblings, Karen (Lee) Adams, Al (Gina) Cotter, Debbie (Bob) Black, and Dan (Judy) Cotter; sister-in-law Darlene Cotter; and his loyal dog, Ruby. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Tom.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Mike's honor to the Alzheimer's Association or Arbor Hospice.