Willis I. Cottel

Willis (Will) Irving Cottel passed peacefully at his home in Uptown Dallas on Monday March 3rd, 2025. He is survived by his (3) sons Bradford, Brett, and Darren Cottel, and his (2) daughters Shawn Cottel (Coll) and Louise Cottel (Crain), along with (10) grandchildren.

Willis was born in 1937 to Charles Campbell Cottel and Louise Grace Cottel of Portland Oregon and had (2) older sisters, Eloise Cottel (Barsamian) and Catherine Cottel (Duus).

Will knew at very young age that medicine would be his calling, and he pursued that passion with zeal and drive. His academic studies accelerated along with his drive and focus as he entered high school at the age of (12), college at (16), where he finished his medical school and received his doctorate in medicine from the University of Oregon in 1961 at the age of (24). During his residency in New Orleans, he chose the field of Dermatology, later specializing in the treatment and removal of skin cancer. Willis volunteered for military service during the mid-60’s amongst the Vietnam War and served as a Lieutenant Commander from 1965-1967, at the Oakland, California Naval Hospital.

His career was distinguished by numerous accolades and leadership roles, including serving as President of the American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology. His contributions were recognized with the American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery Distinguished Achievement Award, a testament to his lasting impact on the specialty. An innovative leader in Mohs surgery, Willis was one of the first to advocate for board certification in Mohs micrographic surgery, shaping the future of skin cancer treatment.

A dedicated mentor, he was the Director of the Mohs Chemosurgical Fellowship at Sammons Cancer Center, training and guiding the next generation of dermatologic surgeons. His commitment to advancing the field also led him to establish the Baylor Medical Center Skin Cancer Group and its monthly reviews, ensuring continued learning and excellence in skin cancer treatment.

Beyond his professional achievements, Willis was an avid fisherman spending many days at lakes, rivers, and especially out on the Gulf of Mexico where he and the family enjoyed fishing many miles offshore bringing home all that the Gulf could offer. His sharp wit and sense of humor often took over a room, where people gravitated towards his presence, intellect, and warmth. His ability to deeply connect with his patients, colleagues, friends, and family, with direct honesty, backed by factual accuracy, and a conveyance of compassion, made Willis a person with incredible integrity. This advice, guidance and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of his life will be held Saturday March 15th from 4:00pm-6:00pm at 2525 N. Pearl Street; Dallas, Tx 75201.

In his honor, his family encourages all to continue his dedication to excellence, mentorship, and truth in medicine—principles he lived by every day. In lieu of flowers, the family asks to please donate to the Alopecia Areata Foundation of America (https://www.naaf.org/) or to a charity of your choice.