Thomas S. Cotter, Former Stanley Air Tools Employee and Beloved Family Man, Passes Away at 80



Thomas S. Cotter, Former Stanley Air Tools Employee and Beloved Family Man, Passes Away at 80

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas S. Cotter, a cherished father, grandfather, and former employee of Stanley Air Tools. Thomas, a long-time resident of North Perry, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 20, 2024, at the age of 80.

Early Life and Education

Thomas was born on August 24, 1943, in Painesville, Ohio, to Gerald M. and Anne (O’Leary) Cotter. He attended Thomas W. Harvey High School, where he developed a passion for sports and a strong sense of community.

In his youth, Thomas worked part-time as a newspaper delivery boy for the Painesville Telegraph and as a bike messenger for Western Union, delivering telegrams throughout the town.

Career at Stanley Air Tools

After graduating from high school, Thomas embarked on a successful career at Stanley Air Tools, a leading manufacturer of pneumatic tools and equipment. He spent three decades with the company, earning a reputation for his dedicated work ethic and technical expertise.

Thomas retired from Stanley Air Tools in 1998, leaving behind a legacy of service and camaraderie.

Family and Friends

Thomas’s greatest passion in life was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and he cherished every moment spent with his loved ones.

Thomas was also an avid gardener, cook, and outdoor enthusiast. He enjoyed raising chickens, hosting pig roasts and clam bakes for his family and friends, and traveling to new and exciting places.

He was a loyal sports fan, particularly rooting for the Cleveland Indians and the Ohio State Buckeyes. His Irish heritage was a source of great pride for him.

Thomas will be deeply missed by his children, Amanda of Kirtland, Thomas Gerald (Kayleigh) of Knightdale, North Carolina, and Elizabeth (Brian) Tatum of Raleigh, North Carolina; his grandchildren, Vivienne Venida, Declan and Teague Cotter, and Lark Tatum; his sisters, Margaret Anne Shaughnessy of Painesville, Carol (Carlos) Nunez of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Marilyn C. Colgrove of Concord; several nieces and nephews; and many cousins and friends.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Gerald James; his sister, Maureen C. Quiggle; and his nephew, Michael G. Shaughnessy.

Funeral Arrangements

A Mass of Christian Burial for Thomas S. Cotter will be held at Saint Mary Catholic Church (242 North State Street, Painesville) on Friday, June 7 at 10:00 a.m.

Interment will take place at Riverside Cemetery (385 Riverside Drive, Painesville) immediately following church services.

The family of Thomas S. Cotter would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all those who have offered their condolences and support during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Thomas’s memory to Saint Mary Catholic Church or to a charity of your choice.



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