Obituary
In loving memory
Trudy M. Cotter
March 31, 1927 – December 21, 2022
Our exceptionally strong, independent, and hard-working mother passed on December 21st, with family by her side. Gertrude Mary was born on March 31st, 1927, to parents Ray Ebbett and Leveda (Foster) Ebbett of Bristol, New Brunswick. The fifth of six siblings, all raised on a farm.
She graduated from Bristol High School in 1944. Upon graduation, she trained as a Telegraph Operator, translating Morse Code for CN Rail. She began her career in 1945, relaying important information for many towns throughout New Brunswick. In 1947, she was stationed in Lockeport, Nova Scotia, which became her home base, and traveled to many towns within the province as a relief operator or to train others. The last Morse Code Operator in Lockeport, Trudy could recall all the Morse Code and call signs for each town she worked in up until the day she died.
She applied and was accepted to train with the Navy as a Communications Officer because of her unique skillset in Morse Code. She ultimately decided to stay in Lockeport and married Hastings Cotter, on October 6, 1954.
Trudy later worked in the office of Pierce Fisheries Ltd./Clearwater Seafoods for 33 years, retiring in 1997.
Trudy was an avid bowler, well into her 80s, and was a part of many leagues and won many tournaments and trophies. Throughout her many years of work, bowling, and activities with the Baptist Church, she met and developed many friendships lasting a lifetime.
A very involved mother and grandmother, she dedicated herself to her family, always. Whether attending sports games, traveling to New Brunswick, or simply bringing by a baked good, she was actively part of her family’s lives.
Trudy was pre-deceased by her husband, our father, Hastings Cotter, and siblings Gerald, Thelma, Marjorie, Elvin, and Ray Graydon.
Trudy is survived by her family, daughter Marianne Swim; granddaughter Anne Swim; great-granddaughter Savannah Taylor; grandson Luke Swim; great-grandson Kyler Swim; great-granddaughter Payton Swim; grandson Aaron Swim (Monica Williams); great-granddaughters Piper and Cassie Swim; daughter Barbara Gidney (Ralph Gidney); grandson Nicholas Gidney; grandson Jonathan Gidney (Alicia Gidney); great-granddaughter Adelynn Gidney; great-grandson Nolan Gidney; daughter Suzanne Crosby (Bill Crosby); grandson Matthew Crosby (Nicole Crosby); great-grandsons Jaxon and Nash Crosby; grandson Bryce Crosby (Michelle Crosby); and grandson Kyle Crosby. Trudy is also survived by her special niece Carole McHarg.
Her last two years were lived at Surf Lodge Nursing Home and the family would like to extend their gratitude and appreciation to the staff that cared for Trudy.
No visitation or funeral service by request. Cremation has taken place under the direction of H.M. Huskilson’s Funeral Home. At this time the family would like to thank the staff at H.M. Huskilson’s Funeral Home for their kindness and compassion.
Donations in Trudy’s memory can be made to the Lockeport and Area Medical First Responders. Online condolences may be left for the family at: www.huskilson.net.
Mother
The one who bears the sweetest name,
And adds a Luster to the same.
Who shares my joys,
Who cheers when sad,
The greatest friend I ever had.
Long life to her for there’s no other,
Can take the place of my dear mother.
.-.. — …- . / -.– — ..- / — ..- —
(Love you, Mum)
Photo Album
March 31 1927 December 21 2022
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Gertrude Trudy Mary Cotter March 31 1927 December 21 2022 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
H.M.Huskilson funeral homes and crematorium
Death notice for the town of: Lockeport, Province: Nova Scotia