PETER LAYTON COTTINGHAM

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PETER LAYTON COTTINGHAM November 23, 1921 - Swan River, MB August 18, 2014 - Neepawa Age of 92 Peter enlisted in the army in June of 1940, nine months after the outbreak of the Second World War. He spent the next five years either in training for or fighting that war, travelling as far as the Aleutian Islands and North Africa, and seeing action in both Italy and southern France. In 1942 he became a member of the elite First Special Service Force, a unique American-Canadian commando unit later nicknamed the "Devil's Brigade." These "characters," as he called them, were the source of many amazing stories: daring exploits during training and near misses in real battles. In 2013, a bill was signed by President Barack Obama awarding FSSF members the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest honours the United States can bestow. When Peter came home from the war to Swan River, he was introduced to a beautiful young school teacher there named Muriel Gill. They married at Arden in 1946 and by 1950 had settled in Neepawa, where Peter sold cars for Murray's Garage until his retirement in 1986. Drawing on the encouragement of Muriel, who died in 1994, Peter turned his attention to writing a memoir of his war experience and in 1996 published Once Upon a Wartime. In the years that followed he was very engaged in promoting the book, which sold over 3,000 copies. He also shared his experiences with high school classes and through TV interviews. Always very fit and active, he continued to golf, skate, ski and travel into his 80s and lived in his own home until he was 91. Peter is survived by his dear, loving companion, Liz Ferguson, who has been a very bright spot and incredible support to him in these last two decades. He is also survived by his five children, Marilyn Shinyei (Frank) of Porters Lake, NS, David Cottingham (Becky) of Manchester, MA, Karen Cottingham of Calgary, AB, Diane Cottingham of Neepawa, MB, and Joy MacLean (Cam) of Matlock, MB. He was the grandfather of eight and always took a keen interest in their endeavours and accomplishments. As toddlers, they were all delighted when Grampa took magical (and invisible) "boowicky" from his breast pocket to sprinkle on their food, making everything taste delicious! He was also the great-grandfather of eight. Of Peter's five brothers, the eldest, David, was killed at Ortona, Italy in 1943 and Paul and Rick are since deceased. His brothers Frank and Duncan are still living. A man of integrity, generosity, and courage, Peter was a fighter for many causes in his lifetime. He chaired the local United Way campaign, served on both the School Board and Town Council, was Commanding Officer of the air cadets for 10 years, held a private pilot's license and was a member of the Neepawa Flying Club, founded the company that developed Mount Agassiz ski resort, received a life-saving award, served as FSSF president in 1981, and was involved with the Neepawa Golf Club, the Legion, the Lion's Club and the United Church. As an activist with strong opinions and a determined spirit, he also wrote many letters to many editors. Peter and Muriel were great champions of Touchwood, an organization in support of people with mental disabilities. Anyone wishing to make a donation in Peter's memory is encouraged to do so to Touchwood Park Association in Neepawa. Peter's family wishes to thank the caring staff at Country Meadows and Dr. Milligan for looking after our father this past year. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held on Friday, September 5 at 2:00 p.m. at the Neepawa United Church.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 30, 2014