Margaret "Peggy" Cotter's Obituary
Margaret “Peggy” Sproule Cotter was born on January 21, 1938, in Corning, NY, one of seven children to Ardith Finch Sproule and Isaac Sproule.
A graduate of Corning Free Academy, Peg met her husband, Donald Adelrich Cotter of Painted Post, through her close friendship with his sister, Rita Mae. Peg and Don were married on July 26, 1958, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Corning.
Together, they shared 57 adventurous years, beginning with a cross-country road trip for the opening of Disneyland, and later, countless camping memories made across the U.S. in their iconic orange Volkswagen bus.
Peg began her career at Corning Incorporated in 1955. Over 38 years in the Controllers Division, she rose to the role of Senior Accounting Clerk, Associate, a position that reflected her dedication and professionalism.
Peggy was also a talented artist. Her creative collectibles brought joy to many and now fill the homes of travelers who visited “The Boathouse,” lakeside gift shop she and Don operated on Seneca Lake, NY. Life on the lake with Don and their dogs, Doc and Maggie, was one of her greatest joys—especially the endless evenings spent in song, laughter, and shenanigans with the Cotter family. There are many members of Pegs extended family of in-laws (and outlaws Rita and Em Cotter, Chris Sproule), nieces and nephews, whom she loved very much.
Peg was a champion bowler, an avid golfer, and a fierce card player who rarely lost a game of Hand and Foot, Euchre, or SCAT.
In her later years, Peg made her home at Brookdale in Tarpon Springs, FL There, she formed lasting friendships—especially with her dear friend Jo Lillico—and served as representative of the residents, advocating for a vibrant and fulfilling community life. Peg was in her element at social events, group outings, happy hours, and celebrations at Brookdale and all around town.
Peggy is preceded in death by her parents, Ardith and Isaac Sproule; her husband, Don Cotter; her siblings Jack Sproule, Dick Sproule, and Judy Sproule Fagan.
She is survived by her brothers Joe Sproule and his wife Chris, George Sproule and his wife Nancy, sister Arlene Rosenberg, and very special cousin Patsy McClure— along with their families. She also leaves behind many cherished members of her extended family, and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved deeply. Peggy shared many memorable adventures with Kathy Cotter, John Cotter, and Bob Swindell—from spontaneous day trips around the Bay to unforgettable Christmases spent on land, sea, or Airbnb.
A Celebration of Life and Remembrance will be held on Friday, October 24th, beginning at 12:00 p.m. with calling hours, followed by Catholic funeral services at Haughey Funeral Home.
Details on Interment at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery are pending scheduling at this time.
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