Charles H. Cottam, Janesville  (1930 - 2009)

November 2, 1930 - October 27, 2009
Charles H. Cottam, 78, of Janesville died unexpectedly on Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2009, at Mercy Hospital. He was born in Portage, WI, on Nov. 2, 1930, son of the late David H. and Mildred (Link) Cottam. Charles married June Ann McFaul on Dec. 6, 1957, in Dubuque, IA. She predeceased him on Sept. 13, 2004.
Charles was Honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy on Dec. 3, 1954, after serving two tours of duty. He later went to work for GMAD, retiring from skilled trades as a millwright after 32 years of service in 1987. After retiring, he and his wife moved to Briggsville, WI, and returned to Janesville in 1998. Charles was a very supportive husband and father to his family. He was very proud of his three sons, their families, and their accomplishments. Charles was a laid-back and quiet person, but he always kept to a schedule, had a routine, and he was always prompt. He instilled this in his children, which they continue to follow. He enjoyed watching football and baseball, an occasional trip to the casino, and a cold beer with friends. Charles was a member of the Briggsville American Legion Post #329.
He is survived by his three sons: Charles (Vicki) Cottam Jr. of Janesville, Robert (Lynda) Cottam of Janesville, and Dennis Cottam of Huntington, IN; four grandchildren, whom he loved dearly: Kirsten, Claire, Melissa (Peter) Cronin, and Jennifer; great-grandson, Caiden Cronin; and two sisters, Ann Cooper of Madison, WI, and Pat Freits of Escanaba, MI. In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mary.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009, at MILTON LAWNS MEMORIAL PARK CHAPEL, with Rev. Jerry Amstutz officiating. Military Rites will be provided by VFW Kienow-Hilt Post #1621, with entombment will follow. Visitation will be on Saturday morning from 10 a.m. until the time of the service in the CHAPEL. Assisting with arrangements is the WHITCOMB-LYNCH-ALBRECHT FUNERAL HOME, JANESVILLE, (608) 752-2444.