William Samuel Cotterman

William Samuel Cotterman, 88, of Thornville, passed away Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at his residence. Bill was born February 28, 1929 in Thornville, Ohio to the late Roy and Gladys (Binckley) Cotterman. Bill often said he and Carol (May Trout) had a great life. They were fortunate enough to be able to travel, seeing the Grand Canyon, Alaska, Florida, Washington D.C., England, Australia, and parts of Canada. Raising successful children was Bill’s proudest accomplishment, giving most of the credit to Carol since he worked the evening shift at Kaiser Aluminum for 23 of his 36 years before retiring in 1988. Bill farmed throughout his life instilling a competitive nature in his children raising quality Suffolk sheep. He was a faithful member of Grace Lutheran Church in Thornville. Bill supported 4-H, Sheridan FFA, and Farm Bureau. He followed Sheridan athletics, believing their accomplishments to be much more enjoyable than any professional. Bill also enjoyed fishing, especially Crow Lake in Canada. His first trip was in 1937 when he was 7 years old, and his final trip in 2017 when he was 88. Bill is survived by his children, Judy Dearing, Andy (Evie), Glenna, Ted (Libby) and Tim Cotterman; grandsons, Kurt (Tasha) and Nick Dearing, Wesley, Scott, and Seth Cotterman, Vince, Cole (Lydia) and Cord Cardi; three great-granddaughters, Katie, Reagan and Amelia; and three great-grandsons, William, Logan and Bryce. In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Carol May Cotterman (October 16, 2017); a brother, Leonard Cotterman and a grandson, Bryan Cotterman. Friends may call from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Monday, January 22, 2018 at Grace Lutheran Church in Thornville where services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday with Pastor Paul Hansen officiating. Burial will follow in Zion Ridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Lutheran Church. www.bopethomasfuneralhome.com

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