Gary Cotton Obituary

Gary Cotton was a legacy to all of us whom he coached and taught in his tenure at Mithcell High School. In my own experience, I can think of no other whom I hold in such high regard for his devotion and dedication to all the youth he inspired. Gary Cotton was a second father to me, as my swim coach from 1968-1970, and he encouraged me to attend Adams State. The last,and one of the most rewarding experiences with him was in 1990, when he graciously attended our Mitchell High School 20th reunion. Today, I am teaching and swimming, the legacy lives on. My deepest sympathy and compassion to the Cotton family. My prayers are with you.

Dad,

I feel so blessed that I was able to spend time with you in the last 5 months. Thank you for your love daddy. I will miss you,I love you Susan

Dear Cotton Family,



I was going to write an entry for Gary Cotton's Guest Book sooner but my dad was ill and died Jan. 24,2006 on my birthday on less!

I swam on Mitchel's Swim Team 69-70 and we had a few run ins, but as time went I learned to appreciate what he had to say and what he stood for!



My heart felt condolences to the Cotton family.



Take Care!

Mark Campman

My thoughts and prayers to your family in this difficult time. I fondly remember many hours and days spent in hot indoor pools, and "exotic" locations (Lamar, LaJunta, Cheyenne, etc) for swim meets. We are all part of the Security Sea Lions family, and the loss of your father will be missed.

Casey and Family,



I'm sorry to hear about your dad,,, cherish the memories and know you are in our thoughts and prayers.



M McNelis

Gary and I lived only a block apart in our elem. school years and we played pool in our basement almost every day. In high school we double dated some times and I cherish all the memories we had together. He was always a friend and every time we met after our school days we would talk and catch up on our lives. I will miss him dearly.

Marvin "Andy" Anderson

I went to Custer County High School with Gary - His sister Hanna Jean was in my graduating class of 1951-

I remember Gary went out with one of my old girl friends (he was about 2 yrs. older then I) - I remember doing part time work for his father Don Cotton.

It is sad to see Gary gone! But, he is in a better place.

Dear Betty,

We were very saddened to hear of Gary's passing. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to you and all of the family, both Gary's and yours.

We have many pleasant memories of Gary over the years, most recently when you both came to visit us in Grand Junction in 2003.

Will miss Gary's visits to Miles City. Our Sympathy and prayers are with you. Bob & Helen Swanson

In the short times that my darling Aunt Betty & Gary visited with us, we noticed that Gary's zest for life was larger than his physique. James & I have been left with happy memories of exploring an antique mall together & just visiting with the two of them. It was obvious that Gary walked tall with our Lord & took very good care of his precious wife. Betty our hearts & prayers are with you during this second, much too soon, time of sorrow. May the Holy Spirit wrap His arms around you & comfort you. The glass is still on top of the fridge. May Gary rest in peace.

We will always remember you and love you Dad.

Betty and Gary's children:



We will always remember Gary as a fun-loving, tender-hearted person. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.



Bill and Montene Wright

Stop and smell the roses...

My heartfelt sympathy to the Cotton family. I have many fond memories of Mr. Cotton as a swim coach as well as the father of my very dear friend Danny. He had a larger than life personality and will be missed by all who knew him. Stay strong, my prayers are with you. Tina Bash (Carnes)

We are very sorry to hear about the passing of Gary. We have known him since 1965 (the opening of Mitchell H. S.) and will miss a true friend. Our thoughts and prayers go to Berry, Pat and the kids. May your many good memories sustain you.

Betty my heart goes out to you. It was so good of Gary to bring you here to visit us three or four times. He was a strong man and he will be missed by family and friends

Betty, all our love and sympathy

We have lost a very dear brother-in-law. Betty and Gary visited us soon after they married and we had such a wonderful get acquainted time. We will always remember him as being a wonderful and loving husband to our sister. Much to young and energetic to leave us so soon. Our hearts go out to all the family. Gerlene and Fred Barrett

Gary and I had a beautiful marriage and his passing has left a huge gap in my life. We did everything together. He was happy to drive me anyplace I wanted to go. He lives on in my memory as the handsome and strong, yet tender man that he was.

We have fond memories of Gary and send our love and sympathy to all.

Uncle Dan, Dolores & family

Gary was ambitious and energetic in everything he undertook.

Casey, Sorry for your loss. My family wishes you the best during this time.

Tim Hickey, Palmer High Class of 83

Marty Betzing and Pat Cotton

We knew Gary and Pat for many years when our kids were swimming together. We are very saddened and shocked. He was a wonderful educator and a friend. Our sympathy goes out to his kids and family.

Darren, Chris and Darrell Higman