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Richard Cottrell Obituary
Feb. 4, 1920 - Aug. 17, 2013
Resident of Danville
Richard passed away peacefully at home, with his loving wife, Jean, at his side. He was born and raised in Fall River, Mass. He graduated from MIT with a BS degree in chemical engineering.
He served in the U.S. Navy from 1941-1946 (WW II) aboard aircraft carrier Altamaha in the South Pacific & 1950-1952 (Korean War) and attained rank of Commander.
His 20-year career at Aerojet, Sacramento, CA began in 1956 during which he became chief project engineer, Polaris, 1959; and Chief Engineer, Minuteman, 1961. He received an award from NASA for his pioneering work in a sector of the propellant field, the large solid propellant rocket motor - the "260". From 1976 to retirement, he was President of Imotek, a cogeneration company.
He enjoyed sailing with his family and friends in SF Bay/SoCal, photography, tennis and gourmet dining. His love of music was lifelong, from Benny Goodman to Chopin.
Richard was a loyal friend and always ready to fight for what he believed was right. He will be sadly missed by his adoring wife, family and friends but will be forever in our hearts.
He leaves his wife, Jean, the love of his life for 66 years; his brother, J. Thomas Cottrell (Margot), South Swansea, Mass; his loving children, Jeannie Jurach (Mike), Stafford, Virginia; Catherine Younce (Doug), Danville, CA; Richard Cottrell Jr. (Karen), Long Beach, CA; James Cottrell, Orange, CA; Peter Cottrell (Barbara), Florida; Rick Cottrell, Florida; Steve Cottrell (Kathy), Florida; 14 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
Please raise a glass in memory of a wonderful, well-loved man and to celebrate his wonderful, well-lived life.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Cottrell
1 Entry
Vicki Bolinger
September 24, 2013
Dear richard and karen so sorry to learn of the loss of your father. May you find comfort in knowing he is forever in your heart!
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