Lynne Cottrell

Lynne Cottrell, 85, passed away unexpectedly on August 31st following a recent illness. She was surrounded by her family. Born Margaret Lynne Cartier in East Grand Rapids, Michigan, Lynne attended Michigan State University. She initially aspired to become a sports reporter but, given the opportunities available to women at the time, pursued a degree in education instead. She received her master’s degree from the University of Colorado.

Lynne married Bo Kent Cottrell in 1980, and together they shared a life filled with love, service, friendship, and a deep commitment to their community. She is survived by her husband and their blended family of four children, six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and her niece. Lynne was proud of her family and loved them very much. Lynne and Bo first met at Taylor’s Supper Club, where Bo and his musical group, The Lawmen, were performing. Their life together would bring them into contact with many notable figures and celebrities, many of whom they enlisted to help raise funds for charitable causes.

Lynne and Bo became a true power couple in Arapahoe County and throughout Colorado, devoting much of their lives to public service, their community, and causes close to their hearts.

Among Lynne’s many passions was the world of hunter-jumper horse competitions, where she won countless blue ribbons and trophies. Lynne served as Chairman of the Arapahoe County Republican Party, and was a longtime member of the Cherry Creek Republican Women’s Club and an associate member of the Douglas County Republican Women’s Club.

Together, Lynne and Bo dedicated themselves to helping others through their charitable work. They served as chairs for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, working tirelessly to raise thousands of dollars in support of its mission to bring hope and joy to children facing difficult circumstances.

They also founded the Colorado TAPS Foundation, supporting the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), a national nonprofit organization that provides care and support to military families who have lost a loved one while serving our country. Through their involvement, Lynne and Bo generously gave their time, energy, and resources, helping raise millions of dollars to support military families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Lynne’s commitment to service went far beyond titles and organizations. She cared deeply about people and gave her time, energy, and heart to the causes and individuals she believed in. She possessed a remarkable ability to bring people together in pursuit of something larger than themselves.

Most of all, Lynne will be remembered as a much-loved woman whose warmth, strength, generosity, and dedication touched countless lives. Her legacy lives not only in the organizations she supported and the funds she helped raise, but in the people she helped, the friendships she formed, and the lives she made better along the way.

She will be deeply missed by her family, her many friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know and love her. Her life of service, compassion, and love will not be forgotten.

Rest in peace, Lynne. Your love, friendship, and legacy will live on in all who know you.

A service celebrating the life of Margaret Lynne “Lynne” Cottrell will be held on Sunday, October 11, from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. at DoubleTree by Hilton Denver Tech Center, 7801 East Orchard Road, Greenwood Village, Colorado 80111. Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend and join in remembering Lynne’s life and legacy.