Paddy Bruce Cottrell

"Since everything is none other than exactly as it is, one may well just break out in laughter."

Paddy was born in Seattle to Melvin and Violet Cottrell on October 28, 1950 and was joined in 1952 by little brother Kerry. Vi's older children, Bob and Sis, were starting families of their own and they became one big, loving, boisterous clan, with many memories of family get-togethers on the farm in Snohomish.

Paddy graduated from Snohomish HS in 1968, and went on to Skagit Valley College on a wrestling scholarship, where he met the love of his life, Marian.

Believe in "love at first sight" – or not – but that was it.

They married in 1971 (what were they thinking?) and moved on to Central Washington University and 48 years of adventures. The biggest of which was parenting. Jeff was born in 1984, followed by Annie in 1987, opening doors of love and laughter and surprises. Those years went so fast, and he loved them unconditionally.

After a couple of early careers Paddy started his own businesses; first Cottrell & Associates, and then The Benefits Company. He always thought big and was usually on to something. In the early days it was Marian's job to ask "Yes, but ... can we make the car payment this month?" He acquired many friends and associates who made it all happen, and who became very special people in his life.

Unfortunately, Paddy suffered a series of strokes that eventually disabled him, and broke the hearts of all who knew him. But not his own. He remained the optimistic, positive guy he always was.

In addition to Marian, Jeff and Annie, Paddy is survived by his brother Kerry Cottrell, Kerry’s wife Julie, and his other sisters-in-law Lorraine Eliason, Carolyn Freeman and Ellie Dale. And a multitude of nieces and nephews – and their children – who have delighted him over the years.

Paddy believed deeply in impermanence and reincarnation. Please send him your thoughts for guidance to an advantageous rebirth, as he travels to his next adventure. May this merit of ours be apportioned to all beings.

Service of celebration will be held at 2PM on March 8 at the Lake Forest Park Civic Club, 17301 Beach Dr. NE, Lake Forest Park, 98155.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: World Association for Children and Parents.