Philip M. Cotter

Philip M. Cotter

Family & friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Thursday, August 22nd, 2013 from 4 – 8 p.m. in the Vertuccio & Smith Home for Funerals, 773 Broadway (Route 107), Revere, for Philip M. Cotter, who died on Monday, August 19th at his Swampscott home, following a long illness, at 90 years.  His funeral will be conducted from the funeral home on Friday, August 23rd at 9 a.m., followed by a funeral mass in St. John the Evangelist Church at 10 a.m., 178 Humphrey St., Swampscott, followed by interment in Swampscott Cemetery, Swampscott.  Philip M. Cotter died peacefully in his home surrounded by his family.  He was the beloved husband of the late M. Patricia (Hennebery) Cotter for over 61 years; the cherished father of Trisha Nagle of Swampscott, Susan Coughlin of Wilmington, Karen Hoffman of Colorado, Dr. Janis Cotter of Swampscott, & Philip J. Cotter of Revere.  He was the beloved father-in-law of Robert Coughlin, Jeffrey Hoffman, Elizabeth Arnold, & Alice Cotter; the adored grandfather of Jonathan & Lynnette Coughlin, Jeffrey & Lauren Coughlin, Elizabeth & Tyler Polumbus, Victoria Cotter & Lloyd Stevens, Catherine & Daniel Cummings, Caitlin Nagle & Rick Frauton, Christopher & Karen Nagle, Drew Hoffman, & Jessa Hoffman; also lovingly survived by six great-grandchildren.  He was the cherished brother-in-law of the late Blaise Hennebery.  He was also the dear brother of the late, James A., Michael A., Daniel A., John F. & Francis J. Cotter, & Catherine Kiernan.  Phil was born to Daniel & Augustine (Gagne) Cotter on August 2nd, 1923 in Salem, MA.  He graduated from Immaculate Conception High School, Revere, MA in 1941.  Shortly after graduation, he joined the United States Marine Corps & served in the Pacific as a Master Sergeant during World War II.  When Phil returned from the war, he married Pat Hennebery, the love of his life.  Their marriage was a true “Love Story” for 61 years.  They were each other’s best friend.  The two settled in Revere.  There, they raised their five children & were active members of the Immaculate Conception Parish.  Phil was past grand knight of the Knights of Columbus, Council # 179.  Phil & Pat & their family enjoyed camping.  The children have fond memories of their many camping adventures including a 6-week long camping trip to Alaska.  This was Phil’s dream trip.  He also enjoyed vacationing with family & friends at “Sheila’s Grove,” Merrimack, NH, “Candle Pine Village,” Tamworth, NH, & “Campmanykidamongus,” Lebanon, ME.  For 40 years Phil was the owner & manager of the Optical Department at Jordan Marsh in downtown Boston.  He also founded Parkway Optical in Revere, MA over 40 years ago & is still owned & operated by Philip’s children & family.  Phil has always been known for his great sense of humor, kindness, & ability to tell a good story.  After retiring, Pat & Phil moved to Swampscott.  When Pat developed Alzheimer’s disease during the later years of their marriage, Phil lovingly cared for his soul mate & best friend.  His tireless devotion was both touching & inspiring.  Phil will be missed greatly by all who knew & loved him… he made our world a better place.  In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly), 100 Cummings Center, Suite 166A, Beverly, MA 01915.

Services

Visiting Hours

Thursday, August 22nd, 2013 from 4 – 8 p.m.

Funeral Mass

Friday, August 23rd, 2013 at 10 a.m. in St. John the Evangelist Church, Swampscott.

Interment

Swampscott Cemetery, Swampscott.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly), 100 Cummings Center, Suite 166A, Beverly, MA 01915.