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TERENCE COTTRELL
Born: Jul 26, 1955
Date of Passing: Feb 20, 2026
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
TERENCE COTTRELL
After a long but private battle with cancer, Terry Cottrell passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026, at St. Boniface Hospital, Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Terry was born in Fort William, Ontario, on July 26, 1955, and apart from living a few school years in our parents' hometown of Fort William, ON, he spent most of his life in Winnipeg.
Predeceased by younger brother Douglas Wayne Cottrell, March 29, 2024, and mother Olga (Ollie) Cottrell, January 7, 2022. Surviving family are father William (Bill) Cottrell, older sister Lynda, and Ben Kitzan, younger brothers, Les and Lori Cottrell, Warren and Teresa Cottrell, ten nieces and nephews, and 14 great-nieces and nephews.
Terry was a devoted son and brother with a strong sense of duty, a great sarcastic wit, and sense of humour. He took care of our parents until they could no longer stay at home and also managed and maintained the family home. Terry never wed or had children, although he had a special way with them. His nieces and nephews spent many fun times with him. Terry was loyal to a small group of close friends. In his youth, he played football and competitive team handball and throughout his life, he enjoyed the outdoors and was an active hunter, fisherman, and enjoyed long walks.
Terry had a B.Sc. in Geology from the University of Manitoba and trained as a Power Engineer at Red River Community College. But he really found his calling with the Winnipeg Fire department where he started as a firefighter on February 3, 1987, and his co-workers gave him the nickname of ‘The Ripper’. Terry was promoted to Lieutenant on May 9, 2010, and Captain on January 27, 2013. He retired after 30 years of distinguished service on February 7, 2016.
At his request, there will not be a funeral service, and his remains will be cremated and scattered in the fishing and hunting area where he found great joy and peace in nature with his companions.
The family would like to thank the medical service people who supported Terry throughout his battle with cancer. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 28, 2026
