William David Cottle, Sr.

Bill was born in his childhood home in Mamaroneck, NY to Harry and Amelia (Weichel) Cottle, where he grew up.

Bill married the love of his life, Jane Gloria Matson Cottle (who predeceased him) and together they embarked on a 56-year adventure. They moved to Monroe, CT where they raised six children who survive him, William Cottle Jr. (Jean Holcombe) of East Hartland, CT, Nancy Johnson (Scott) of Southbury, CT, Linda Harvey (Greg) of East Hartford, CT, Laura Larson (Don Smith) of Mashpee, MA, Richard Cottle (Brooke) of Edgewater, MD, and Robert Cottle (Cathy) of Milford, CT.

Bill also leaves behind his grandchildren, Jennifer Johnson Panoli (Ryan), Lauren Johnson Zorrilla (Edwin), Sean Harvey, Becca Harvey, Grace Cottle, Carly Jane Cottle, and Matthew William Cottle. In addition, he was blessed with two great grandchildren, Scott Thomas Panoli and Violet Jane Panoli with another great grandson on the way.

Bill was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews and several other great nieces and nephews who he adored and celebrated. Of special note, the family would like to thank our cousins, the McSweeney and Livingston families, for their care and support of their GGUB (Great, Great Uncle Bill) from Florida, as well as the many close friends in the Circle Bay community who always checked in on him, especially after Jane’s passing. We are forever grateful.

He was a proud Veteran of the United States Navy where he served honorably during World War II. As part of the Greatest Generation Bill’s love of our country was palpable. Bill was a fraternal member of the Royal Order of Freemasons.

While family was everything to Bill, his strong Christian faith was evident by his commitment to both St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Monroe and St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Port Salerno, FL where he was a parishioner for over 60 years, singing in the choirs and participating in many committees and activities.

In 1972, with six kids in tow, Bill decided to chase the American dream by starting his own business, New England Kitchen Design Center, in Monroe. He loved his work and built many lifelong relationships along the way. His passion for designing, building, and tinkering never ceased even throughout his final days.

In addition to his work and family Bill’s other love was the sea, and he could be found sailing Candlewood Lake and Long Island Sound spending many summers at Milford Yacht Club. The family enjoyed many days together at “The Club” which was usually topped off with his signature backflip off the diving board at the pool and a cocktail. Whatever sailing vessel was in his life at the time was a second love and passion, one he passed onto others, especially son Rich, who has proudly carried on this tradition.

In 1989, Bill and Jane retired to Stuart, FL living at Circle Bay Yacht Club where they made many friends, enjoyed sailing and hosting family who came to town. Bill was active in the Circle Bay Yacht Club Association serving as Commodore and in other leadership positions. They maintained a residence at Circle Bay for over 30 years.

After his wife’s passing, Bill was blessed with a new companion, Grace Canfield, who brought him much happiness and joy until her passing in 2021. It was around this time he decided to return full time to Connecticut to be closer to family. His happiest days included visits from his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren as well as playing many rounds of Rummikub. He was always interested to hear what everyone was up to and beamed with pride at the many accomplishments of all.

With his life spanning nearly ten decades, he was a giant among men. He survived multiple bouts of melanoma including a twelve-month cancer treatment program at the age of 75 that he handled like the champion he was. He also kicked Covid at the age of 98. Ultimately, this kind soul’s body had different plans even though his mind and spirit did not. The family would like to thank the many compassionate caregivers and Hospice team who lovingly cared for him until the very end.

We were blessed to call him Dad, Grandpa, Pop Pop, Captain Bill, and most affectionately, “The Admiral”. He leaves a legacy unmatched, having impacted hundreds of lives throughout the years. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Friends and family are invited to attend a Celebration of Life service on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at 2:00pm at St Peter’s Grace Episcopal Church, 175 Old Tannery Road, Monroe, CT 06468. Gathering to follow. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider making a memorial donation in Bill’s memory to St. Peter’s Grace Episcopal Church.