Phil Cotter was born in Port Hope, Ontario on December 7, 1958, the youngest child of Glen and Julie Cotter.

Growing up in Port Hope, Phil loved spending time outdoors - especially hunting in the woods - and making memories with his friends and family. He often shared stories about working at Ferguson’s dairy farm as a kid, a job that seemed to spark his lifelong work ethic.

After graduating, Phil headed west to Alberta with a group of friends looking to find work in the booming oil patch. It would be the beginning of a 40-year career in the oil and gas industry. Throughout the years, Phil worked for a number of companies and became known not only for his deep knowledge and strong work ethic, but for the support and guidance he offered others. Many people have shared how is mentorship helped shape their own careers.

Not long after arriving in Alberta, Phil met the love of his life, Lavonne. The two were married in 1983, and this July 30th would have marked their 42nd anniversary. They welcomed their son Jaron soon after their marriage, and in 1986, their daughter Stephanie completed their family.

Phil spent much of his working life away from home, often stationed across Alberta and Saskatchewan. Lavonne and the kids made countless road trips over the years to be with him, whether for weekends or for longer visits. Family time was always a priority, no matter the distance.

One of Phil’s greatest joys came in 2007, when his grandson Teegan was born. From the moment he was first called “Papa”, the pride and happiness on his face were unmistakable. He cherished every moment spent with Teegan, whether it was quad rides, trampoline tricks, backyard pool parties, or cheering him on at sports events.

Summers at the Cotter home were legendary. Nieces and nephews would come to stay, sometimes for weeks, just to be with Uncle Phil and Auntie Bon. At their house, there were ‘no rules’, fun was the only priority. The days were filled with water fights, games of kick-the-can in the dark, dressing up for backyard performances, and endless chaos. Phil loved every minute of it.

Many return trips to Port Hope were made over the years to reconnect with family and old friends. He cherished those visits and the memories they created.

At home in Veteran, Alberta, the open garage door was a sure sign that Phil was around; usually with music playing, a cold beer in hand, and a warm welcome for anyone who stopped by. He was known for his unbeatable homemade pizza with Caesars, his love of driving around the countryside, shooting gophers, spontaneous visits with friends, and lazy Sundays spent with Lavonne.

He had a deep love of music, especially playing guitar with Brian. He was always up for a game of pool or a good party.

Phil leaves behind an irreplaceable void, both in Alberta and in his hometown of Port Hope. He will be forever missed by his loving wife Lavonne; son Jaron (Chelsea, children Lexi and Brie); daughter Stephanie; and grandson Teegan. He is also survived by his mother Julie Cotter; brothers Garrie and Rod (Anne); sister Suzanne (Earl) Ashby; mother-in-law Janet Heistad; sisters-in-law Lynette (Andy) Soukevelos, and Shelly (Ted) Bach; brother-in-law Kent (Jacky) Heistad; and many nieces and nephews, each of whom holds a special place in their heart for Uncle Phil. He was predeceased by his father Glen Cotter, and by his father-in-law Rey Heistad.

Phil will also be fondly remembered by many lifelong friends, both in Alberta and back home in Port Hope.

A service for Phil will be held on Wednesday July 23rd, 2025, at the Veteran Community Hall, 403 Coronation Ave, Veteran, AB T0C 2S0, at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials donations may be directed to the Coronation Health Centre Foundation, Mail Bag 500, Coronation, AB, T0C 1C0. Condolences to Phil’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Cotter” in the subject line.

Arrangements in care of

Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service

A locally owned cremation and funeral provider

serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta

587-876-4944