Bertrand "Rol" Cote

Rol was born in Lewiston on September 23, 1944, to Bertrand and Irene Cote. He graduated from Edward Little High School in 1962 and went on to graduate from the University of Maine at Machias. He later earned a master’s degree in mathematics, continuing his lifelong commitment to education and learning.

Rol began his teaching career as a middle school teacher. A few years later, he began teaching high school mathematics at Lewiston High School, where he spent more than 30 years dedicated to education and to the many students whose lives he touched. He had a special love for children and took great pride in helping young people learn, grow, and reach their potential.

Rol proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserve for 20 years, demonstrating the same dedication to service that he brought to his family, students, and community.

Rol was a devout Catholic, and his faith was an important part of his life. He was also known for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to give his time to anyone who needed it. Whether helping family, friends, neighbors, or former students, Rol was always willing to lend a hand. His generosity and genuine concern for others were among the qualities that made him so deeply loved and respected.

Rol was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Colette Cote, whom he married on November 8, 1969, and by his sisters, Donna Cote and Tina Anderson. Together, Rol and Colette shared a life centered around family, faith, and community.

He is survived by his sons, Daryl Cote and his wife, Mary, of Lewiston, and Jeff Cote and his fiancée, Crystal Robinson, of Lewiston; his grandchildren, Anna Cote, Amy Cote, and Lucas Cote; and his siblings, Jackie Holbrook and her husband, Bill; Bonnie Colby and her husband, Paul; and Brenda Cote and her partner, Patricia Ray. He also leaves behind many extended family members, friends, former students, and others whose lives he touched throughout his years.

Outside of teaching and spending time with those he loved, Rol enjoyed playing golf. He cherished the friendships, conversations, and time spent together on the course.

Rol will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his Catholic faith, his commitment to education and military service, his love of children, and his remarkable generosity with his time. His impact as a teacher and his warmth as a father, grandfather, brother, and friend will live on in the many people fortunate enough to have known him.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Rol's visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 2nd from 5-7PM, at the Fortin & Pinette Group, 305 Alfred A Plourde Parkway, Lewiston.

His Mass of Christian Burial will be the following day, Thursday, September 3rd at 11AM at the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 122 Ash Street, Lewiston. His committal service will follow immediately after at St Peters Cemetery, where Rol will receive military honors.

Arrangements are in the care of The Fortin & Pinette Group. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website.