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RODNEY JOHN COTTON
Born: Sep 05, 1945
Date of Passing: Jul 10, 2020
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RODNEY JOHN COTTON
September 5, 1945 - July 10, 2020
Son of John Cotton and Esther Ellen Locke, brother to Linda Joan Hayner (William H. Hayner) and father of Lisa Naveau, Chantelle Brown Cotton (Kim Brown) and Naomi Oldcotton (Don Oldcorn), and grandfather of John, Sasha, Aidyn, Anthony, Matthew and Sierra.
Dad was born and raised in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan then went on to study Resource Management at Kelsey Institute in Saskatoon. He had a 30-year career with Manitoba Conservation that started in Cranberry Portage and continued through Snow Lake, Swan River, Birds Hill Park, Grand Beach and Lundar. He built many life-long friendships through this work. After retiring from Conservation he drove truck for five years. A loving and adventurous father, he took us camping and fishing and fostered a love for the beauty of nature.
He was known for his honesty and integrity; he said what he meant and meant what he said.
Dad requested that we not have a funeral service so please take time outside in the places that you knew our dad. Share a story, tell a joke. Remember his trademark boisterous laugh. Thank you for the joy you brought to our dad's life.
Thank you to the health care professionals at Health Sciences Centre, Concordia and the Seven Oaks Day Hospital.
Donations in Rod's name can be made to the charity of your choice or the Manitoba Conservation Officers Association.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 25, 2020
Condolences & Memories (7 entries)
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Rod was my stepfather and then along came my sister Lisa from him & my mom's relationship. Their relationship ended when I was just a child, but I always loved Rod and had always wished he was my father. I remember him using his big hands to make a "swing" that I could sit on, and he'd swing me between his legs. He also gently tossed me into the air and boy did I love that. I always remembered doing so many things with him and my mom as he made sure to be a very active stepfather often taking us on outings, taking pictures, and doing fun things. I remember him buying me a beautiful purple coat for winter in Winnipeg. Even once Lisa was born, he was always very loving toward me and treated me equally as his daughter. I was very happy that I got to speak to him on the day of his death, but sad for him to go although I respected his wishes not to make a big sad scene about it. He was a wonderful stepfather and will always be remembered with the utmost fondness and respect! - Posted by: Michelle Froman (step-daughter) on: Aug 23, 2021
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I’m very sorry for your loss. I worked with Rod for a number of years at Reimer Express. After he moved on we would frequently meet at the McPhillips casino for the lunch buffet, or at Sunvalley for breakfast. I visited at HSC and hoped things were improving but that was not to be. Covid ended our visits. I’ll raise a glass of Original 16 to you Rod. My condolences to the family. - Posted by: Albert Falk (Coworker) on: Sep 14, 2020
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Rod came to one of our Toastmaster’s meetings (I think at YMYWCA Toastmasters) and became a valued member. This goes back a long ways, as I recall, he was super nervous, but he had really interesting stories about his conservation work, in Bird’s Hill Park at the time. He became a wonderful speaker. He was somebody you wanted to be like, smart, articulate, and just a really really nice man. A gentle giant. My heartfelt condolences to your family. Dave Friesen - Posted by: Dave Friesen (Old Toastmaster’s member) on: Sep 12, 2020
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I recognized his smile in the paper. I only met your Dad once...as we worked that Saturday morning years ago, preparing your kitchen,dining room for renovations. He was a large man, remember looking up..to see that smile..I liked him right away. He worked hard on that reno because of his love for his daughter and her sweet family.. Sorry for your loss Chantelle to you and your families. Patti and Barb - Posted by: Patti Hicks (Friend) on: Aug 05, 2020
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No words can express the sadness and heartbreak we feel on the Island over the passing of Rod. He was such a special part of our family and will be forever missed. Thinking of you always and rest in peace Cuzin. xoxoxo - Posted by: Michele Blanchette (Cousin) on: Aug 02, 2020
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We wish to convey our condolences to the family. - Posted by: Dianne and Kendra (Winnipeg Hearing ) on: Jul 30, 2020
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I worked with Rod while he was posted @ Cranberry Portage. Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss. Rod will be missed. - Posted by: Blair Bastian (Co Worker) on: Jul 28, 2020