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Ellen Cotter Obituary
Ellen M. Cotter, 67, of Danbury, passed away in her home on December 30, 2015 after a brief but brave battle with cancer. Ellen was born in Danbury on February 17, 1948; a daughter of the late Dr. Felix and Anne (Bezurzyk) Tomaino.
A lifelong resident of Danbury, Ellen attended St. Peter's School and was a graduate of Central Catholic High School of Norwalk. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Trinity College in Washington D.C., a Masters of Science in Education from Western Connecticut State University, and a 6th Year Certificate in Education from the Southern Connecticut State University. Additionally, Ellen held a Certificate in Library Science from Lesley College in Cambridge, MA. Throughout her career, Ellen held teaching positions in the Danbury Public School System and numerous private schools in the Greater Danbury Area. Additionally, Ellen spent many years as a teacher of English as a Second Language to adult and child learners.
Ellen was most proud of her tenure as an educator and the accomplishments of her many Danbury area students. Ellen's love of literature and lifelong pursuit of learning have been passed to her former students, family, and many friends. Throughout her entire life, Ellen was a passionate lover of dogs, including her pet Angel, who remained at her side throughout her illness.
Ellen is survived by her children; a daughter, Elizabeth F. Cotter of Danbury, and a son, Sean R. Cotter, of Manhattan. She is also survived by a granddaughter, Olivia B. Cotter of Danbury.
In addition to her children and granddaughter, Ellen is survived by a sister, Ann Ameling of San Francisco, California, a nephew, Michael Slavinsky of San Francisco, California and by her former husband, Attorney Brian E. Cotter of Danbury.
Funeral services are private at the direction of the family; there will be no calling hours. Contributions in Ellen's memory may be made to the Danbury Animal Welfare Society, or to Regional Hospice and Homecare.
Jowdy-Kane Funeral Home, Danbury is in charge of arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ellen Cotter
The Salvatore Family
January 15, 2016
Elizabeth: years may have past us by but the memories we have from JDF Dance school will live on as the happiest times in our lives. Remember the Lewis, Nelson, Cotter, Salvatore fathers' as the blobs!! Tina's misjudgment on the staircase on Deer Hill! See, we have lots of laughs to look back on. We send our deepest sympathy to you and your family. We keep you in thought & prayers
Grandma Judy and Miss Doreen
January 11, 2016
Elizabeth,
We are so sorry to hear about your mom's passing. You are in our thoughts.
Marty Rader
January 7, 2016
We are deeply saddened by Ellen's passing. We have so many fond memories of Ellen, like those of her at our family ski trips to Vermont and at Sunday night pizza "dinners" at our home.
Our heartfelt condolences to all.
The Rader Family
Dr. Daniel O'Brien
January 6, 2016
Liz, As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to your teaching routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of your family and your friends at NVCC.
Nicole Torres
January 5, 2016
Dance with the Angels. Kiss Trista for me. Rest easy beautiful Ellen
Nicole Torres
January 5, 2016
Dearest Ellen,
Im so heartbroken to hear this news. You gave me sunshine on a cloudy day. The sweetest an caring woman I ever met. Dance with all the Angels. Kiss Trista for me.
Rest easy darling
All my love,
Nicole Torres
Bob Chakar
January 5, 2016
Liz,
I'm sorry to hear of your mother's passing. I was glad I got to confirm some of the bus stories to CCHS that your mother shared with you. Our family's and your NVCC family's thoughts go out to you and your family at this time.
Bob and Mary Patricia Chakar
Alma Pendergast
January 5, 2016
Dear Elizabeth, Sean, Olivia and Ann,
I was so saddened to hear of Ellen's passing. She was one of my very best friends through-out high school- I remember with fondness the vacations I'd take with Ellen and her folks. Life just moves so quickly sometimes. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Heather Shea
January 5, 2016
Elizabeth,
I am deeply sorry to learn of the passing of your mother. Please find solace in knowing that she is now at peace in heaven, and her struggle here on earth is done. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time.
Anna Fin Genero
January 5, 2016
Dearest Ellen I feel blessed that we found each other after so many years. You were a kindred spirit and your life will shine on. I will miss our emails. Until we meet again, God bless. To Elizabeth, Sean, Olivia and Ann my deepest sympathies. Your cousin Anna Fin Genero (Australia)
Sandy Sanchez
January 5, 2016
Liz and Olivia, thinking of you.
Bill Shea
January 5, 2016
Elizabeth
So sorry for your loss.
Ellen was a wonderful person.
Laura Hunt
January 5, 2016
Sorry for your loss. Xoxo
Ann Ameling
January 4, 2016
Good Bye to my beloved little sister. We will meet again in Heaven
Peace and love to Elizabeth, Olivia and Sean
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