DENISE COTTER

Condolences & Memories (4 entries)

• I was devastated when I learned of your passing. Mom (Gloria) died in September and now you are gone as well. I will choose to believe you are both playing Bingo or the slots in Heavens Casino. I never knew anyone as tough as you! You were like a Timex watch. You kept taking a licking but kept on ticking! One horrendous life changing event after another. Events not even a movie could make up happened to you or your family over the years. Yet, there you were.... handling it and taking not only care of yourself, but also your family. I won't go into detail, but if you know, you know. At work you were a valuable teammate, leader, mentor and a shoulder to cry on if needed. You were firm but fair not only with the inmates but also with those you led on shift. Coffee and soup after an evening shift or Robins coffee for shift made work a lot easier to tolerate. The fun that was had by you, some of us at your expense and with the inmates made for the best work atmosphere. Your bold and sassy style kept management on their toes and made floor staff feel that we had someone on our side. Your family was your life. I would hear many stories about your kids. You were proud of them, worried about them and loved them fiercely. They kept you supplied in perfume and casino vouchers on birthdays, Mothers Day and Christmas. I know how much you loved it all. You were an excellent daughter. While living with your mom and Freddie, you helped them tremendously. After mom was gone, you kept Freddie going when he didn't want to anymore. I'm sure you may have had a flaw or two, but I never saw them. My condolences to your children and their children and their children and so on. You have left a legacy to be proud of. I hear you sometimes when I utter a saying or our special code. "He/she should be shot with a ball of their own s#*t"! or *blink, blink* In your honour, Mark and I will remember to get in a pile and think of you! You are appreciated, loved and missed. Teresa - Posted by: Teresa Wilson (Friend, Bingo partner, Colleague, Mother of Denise's "Very Best Friend". <3) on: Jan 21, 2023

• Denise, Our time together was short (89 days to be exact) but it was nothing but joy and happiness even in your last few days. Everyone knew no matter how hard I tried to hide it that you were my favourite and now going into work will never be the same. Its the little things that I will remember about you that will get me through everyday as I walk by that room knowing you're not there. Like making you your toast with butter and grape jelly so you didn't have to eat the baseball scones they put on the trays for breakfast. Knowing just how to prop you up in... your words not mine "queen shit of turd island" chair everyday. I'll always think of you when I paint my nails because you hated my colour choices, when I order a french vanilla at Iimmies because that was your favourite too, and when I see catheters they will be purses because that's how you liked it. If it wasn't me watching over you it was my mom on nights. I know how much we will hold you and all your joy in our hearts. I loved coming in to see your smile and hear your laughs knowing that you saved a surprise for me. I made you a painting for Christmas and you asked me what it was I told you, it was a key hole and even tho you were in the darkness the key hole showed light. You will find your way to the key to let it shine. Although this isn't how we all pictured it God knew he held that key and was time to bring you home. Everyday we will look for you and not see you but to keep our heads up and know your watching us. To Bonnie, Debbie, Sherry, Valerie, Randy and Chewy it is my deepest condolences and most love to all of you in these hard times. She will be missed by all she touched But never forgotten. - Posted by: Alyssa Hester (Friend) on: Jan 09, 2023

• Where do I even start to say how huge a part of my life you have been. My cousins, your kids, are all telling me I did so much for you. What they don't understand is how much you did for me. I was completely broken 8 yrs ago. You stepped in when mom passed away and fixed 70% of my broken lost heart. I am and will forever be grateful for you being there for me. You helped me through the absolute toughest times I have ever had to deal with. Our long rides for smokes were such special times together, we laughed a lot and had an amazing time. When you would fall asleep while I was driving I would look at you in awe. You were such an absolutely amazing woman. I broke again when I heard of your passing. How do I get through this one Aunty. No one here now to pick up and help repair my heart this time. I love you Aunty Denise, I will forever miss you. This is not a goodbye but a see you later. Tell Mom I love and miss her. You enjoy your time with "Marta". I love you - Posted by: Tammy Jesmer (Niece) on: Jan 07, 2023

• Denise was truly one of a kind, loving, caring, strong, funny, and such an amazing woman!! We worked together for several years and were truly a force to be reckoned with together. The people placed in our care loved Denise for the true loving and individual care she provided them, so special! Denise, I loved you so very much and had such respect and admiration for you! I know you are in heaven and pain free, hope to see you there someday? You had a unique way of bringing out my emotions, love, anger, care, compassion and understanding. Always so proud of your family and there for them throughout thick and thin! Bye for now my friend! Mark S - Posted by: Mark Soltys (Friend and past co-worker) on: Jan 07, 2023