ROBERT COTTINGHAM

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ROBERT COTTINGHAM September 30, 1919 - June 4, 2013 With deep sadness we announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, Robert Cottingham. To cherish his memory he leaves his wife of 39 years, Olive, daughters Gail (Allen), Christie (George), grandchildren: Robert (Catherine), Lauri (Jay), Jena (Brett) and Alyssa; Donna (Bert), great-grandchildren Adam (Serena) Alyssa B, plus many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Harold and Florence, his first wife of 28 years, Dilys, brothers Lloyd and Glen, sisters Margaret, Phyllis, Dorothy and Jean. Robert was born in Winnipeg and moved to the farm at age five where he worked with his father on their mixed farm which included livestock, a fox and mink ranch, seed grain and seeding cleaning plant. Dad was a proud veteran of the Second World War where he piloted a Sterling bomber and survived many missions, more than most. He met his first wife, Dilys, while stationed in England. They were happily married in 1945 until her passing in 1972. When Robert returned from the war he resided in Winnipeg then moved to the family farm where he and his brother Glen carried on the seed grain business. They were very successful seed growers which was proven by the world championship medals and recognition they received. Dad was a loving man and enjoyed companionship and family. He was fortunate to find love a second time with Olive. They resided on the family farm near Teulon until 1996 when they moved into the new home they built in the Town of Teulon and in August 2012 to the Assisted Living complex in Arborg. Robert and Olive enjoyed life together as they traveled, spent 22 years of winters in their home in Ocala, Florida. Many family members and friends visited them in Florida in the winter months and all were welcomed with open arms. Dad was a well-respected member of the community and his advice was often sought after. He was chairman of the school board and served as chair of the Dunara Cemetery for 30 years. He was an active member of the Heritage Museum in Teulon and represented it at the Chamber of Commerce meetings until this last year. Dad was the recipient of the Diamond Jubilee Medal in November 2012 for his life long accomplishments and contribution to community. He was a firm believer of education and encouraged his children and grandchildren to obtain a career and was so proud of their achievement. Robert loved being surrounded by family and you could always expect to see a big smile when you went to visit him right up to the last day he was with us. His smile will be missed dearly; he was just happy to have you sit by him and hold his hand. You knew you would always get a hug and kiss, and "I love you sweetheart, when are you coming back to visit" when it was time to leave. He will be missed so very much by all. We know he is in peace, there is no more struggling. He can now move independently as he so missed this last couple of months. God Bless you; enjoy your new found freedom. Until we meet again. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, June 11, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. in the Rockwood Community Centre in Teulon; luncheon to follow. A private family interment will be held after lunch at the Dunara Cemetery. Viewing will take place on Monday at 7:30 p.m. at the MacKenzie Funeral Chapel in Teulon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honour to a charity your choice. MACKENZIE FUNERAL HOME TEULON (204) 467-2525 mackhome@mts.net

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 08, 2013