Major Andrew (Andy) David Cotter, 37, of DuPont, Washington, passed away on February 28, 2023 while
participating in a military exercise in Thailand.
Andy's was a well-lived life. He dove headfirst into his interests – his family, travel, cooking, Texas A&M
and New England Patriots football – with a fervor only matched by his joy of sharing those passions with
others. Most of all, he loved sharing his life with his wife and his children. Nothing brought him more
pride and happiness than Brit, Abby, and Teddy.
To everyone, Andy was simply fun to be around. He was quick-witted – sometimes with devastating
effects – but also generous, warm, and had an ease about him that endeared him to so many. Among
the best memories of Andy were his endless pursuits of sophistication, from "taking a shave" with his
play shaving kit at the ripe old age of seven to the "businessman pajamas" he wore around our
childhood homes. The fun part was watching him grow into an erudite, confident, and sartorially gifted
man as "taking a shave" evolved into actual shaving. He never lost his childhood charm and curiosity
and, to those lucky enough to be around him, it was impossible not to feel hopeful and good about life.
Andy was a kind son, fun-loving brother, and above all, a doting husband and devoted father. Decorated
for valor while serving in Iraq, he was a talented Army officer who was poised to ascend to the highest
levels with his intelligence, uncanny grace, and gift for leadership. His passing was not only a loss to his
family and friends but to this country. He leaves an immense hole in the lives of those who knew and
loved him.
Andy's passing was a shock, but no one can deny he made the most of the time he had. He made every
moment matter, and has left an indelible mark in our lives. Andy will forever be remembered in our
stories of him, in his impeccable taste for great food and drinks, and his often dry and silly humor.
It was a gift to have him in our lives, even for the short time we had him. Andy is survived by his wife
Brittany, daughter Abigail, son Theodore, mother Jane, father David, brothers Brian and Gregory, and
nephews William, Timothy, Nicholas, and James. Funeral services will be held at the Church of the
Immaculate Conception in Leavenworth, KS on March, 17, 2023 at 2:00 P.M.