It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of James (Jamie) Arthur Cotter at the age of 64, in Kanata, Ontario.
Born in Brandon, Manitoba, Jamie was the beloved son of the late James Arthur and Ellen Muriel. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Marie Isabelle Stefcyzk (née Anderson), and his cherished sons, Andrew Hamish (Madison Lee) and Douglas Francis. He was a loving brother to Jane Ellen Trites (Glenn) and a proud uncle to Sara, Morgan, Maeve, Brent, and Grant.
Jamie served Canada with honour and distinction for over 42 years in the Royal Canadian Navy, retiring at the rank of Captain (RCN). He was the Commanding Officer of HMCS CATARAQUI, a position where he served with tremendous pride. Jamie’s leadership and dedication later took him across the world, highlighted by his appointment as the Canadian Defence Attaché in Seoul where he forged lasting relationships and helped strengthen ties between Canada and the Korean community — this exposure to the beautiful country of Korea remained close to his heart long after his posting was complete.
An avid skier and cyclist, Jamie found joy and balance in the outdoors. He was an active and dedicated volunteer at the Calabogie Freestyle Ski Club, contributing his time and leadership to help foster a positive and successful environment for athletes and families alike. He was also passionate about travelling and seeing the world in his retirement with his wife Marie.
Jamie held degrees from Carleton University (BA), Queen’s University (MBA), and earned his Master of Defence Studies from the Canadian Forces College. Jamie was a man of intellect, high integrity, and quiet resolve—always ready to step up when leadership was needed. Jamie will be remembered as a builder of bridges, a bearer of diplomacy, and a quiet pillar of strength.
Jamie maintained a close bond with both his cherished sons, forged through a shared love of skiing. Together, they created countless and deeply treasured memories travelling the world, chasing snow and adventure as a family.
A service will be held on Tuesday, July 22nd at 9:30 a.m. at Beechwood National Memorial Center, in Ottawa. Serving military members are invited to wear dress uniforms with medals, and veterans are invited to wear medals.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Jamie’s memory may be made to Wounded Warriors Canada, an organization he was passionate about.
The news of Jamie's passing is so very sad. It was my pleasure to work closely with him for many years. He was thoughtful, capable and a man of great integrity. He worked for the good of all. Together we explored some challenging situations, and his view was always well reasoned and helped me to better frame my understanding of the world and that part of it we lived and worked in. I will miss not being able to share ideas with him. The world is a lesser place without him in it. My condolences to Marie and the family. I hope you will be able to find some peace in many fond memories of your life together.