Gerry Cotter

Geraldine “Gerry” Ann (Mattson) Cotter age 94 of Madison, WI passed away on August 26, 2023.  Daughter of Verner and Myrtle Mattson, Gerry was born and raised in Minneapolis and was a 1947 graduate of Marshall High School.  She met Dale Cotter through mutual friends in 1950, and they were married two years later.  Dale’s job promotion brought the couple to Madison in 1966.

Gerry made enduring friendships throughout her life.  Her warmth, humility and grace helped her make friends wherever she went.  Gerry enjoyed travel, winters in Arizona, reading, her work at the Wisconsin Humanities Committee, church fellowship, and any occasion to socialize.  She was a skilled cook, baker and hostess.  Most of all, she loved her family.

Gerry is survived by Ralph Dale Cotter, husband of 71 years.  Together they modeled kindness to others, integrity, and a loving marriage to their children James (Marianne) Cotter, Sandy (Russ) Kohlstedt and Todd (Sue) Cotter.  Gerry was a beloved grandmother who made holidays and celebrations memorable for her six grandchildren: Stuart (Amanda) Kohlstedt, Sam (Kimberly) Cotter, Allison (Mike) Rehm, Celia (Ryan) Schoening, Carl (Brianna) Cotter, and Natalie (Chris) Avallone.  She treasured her great grandchildren Amelia & Hannah Cotter, Julian & Zola Rehm, Ole & Ernest Cotter and Avery Schoening.

A memorial service will be held at 11 am on Friday, September 1 at BETHANY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 3910 Mineral Point Rd, Madison, where Gerry and Dale have been members for over 50 years. A visitation will be held from 10-11 am. 

Memorials preferred to Agrace Hospice or Bethany United Methodist Church.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road  Madison

(608) 238-3434