Edmund J. Cotter

EDMUND COTTER, 79, Amsterdam, NY, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 22, 2021.

Ed was born on May 30, 1942 to Edmund and Mildred Cotter. Ed is a true native of Amsterdam, having lived his entire life at 4 Steadwell Avenue, Amsterdam until becoming a resident at Wilkinson Residential Health Care Facility in Amsterdam. He attended Amsterdam High School. Ed worked for the State of New York as a clerk in offices in Albany, New York. He faithfully took a bus to and from Albany on a daily basis for thirty years before retiring.

Ed loved his family and was a devoted son to his parents, and deeply loved his brother Thomas Cotter, and his niece, Kelly Cotter. Ed took great pleasure in playing golf at Amsterdam Municipal Golf Course. He often compared his golf swing to Tiger Woods’ golf swing, with a twinkle in his eye. Ed loved dogs and they were his constant companions his entire life. He had four wired hair terrier dogs all named Terry. If they were not at his feet seeking his attention, they were in Ed’s lap looking for his love. Ed also enjoyed the Saratoga Race Track. He followed his favorite horses, jockeys, trainers and owners. He always had the ability to go to the track and walk away with more money than he came with. He collected souvenirs during each track visit. Ed was also a sportsman enjoying baseball, touch football and whiffle ball. He coached an Amsterdam men’s softball team and enjoyed team get together's at Russo’s Bar and Grill after games. In retirement he spent time enjoying coffee and friendship at Saint Mary’s Hospital coffee shop. He also enjoyed friendship and many laughs at the Amsterdam Irish American Club.

Ed Cotter loved the United States of America. He had a large supply of US Navy hats, tee shirts, warm up outfits, rings, and watch. His daily attire reflected his patriotism and pride in the Navy.

Ed leaves behind his sister-in-law Eileen Cotter and his niece Kelly Cotter of Glen Head, New York. He also leaves behind two cousins, Bill McGoey of Connecticut and Rick McGoey of New Jersey. Ed was predeceased by his beloved parents, and his much-loved brother.

A wake will be held at Riley Mortuary, 110 Division Street, Amsterdam, New York on Thursday, September 30, 2021 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm. A prayer service will be held at 1:30 pm with Rev. O. Robert DeMartinis officiating. Burial will follow shortly after the wake at Saint Mary’s Cemetery in Fort Johnson, New York. Donations, in lieu of flowers are appreciated to Saint Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 156 Main Street, Amsterdam, New York 12010 or to the American Parkinson Disease Association, Box 61420, Staten Island, New York, 10306.