Lawrence Cotter

Oct 22, 1952 -

May 9, 2024

Lawrence Philip Cotter was born on Oct. 22, 1952, in New Jersey. He died on May 9, 2024, in Juneau, Alaska. Larry passed away peacefully with wife Sue and children, Emily Ricci and Ben Cotter, at his side.

Larry lived a tremendous life. In his youth, he was an All-State running back in Milwaukee and attended Northwestern on a full scholarship. Injured after a year, he left and traveled the world. His stories from that time are legendary. Returning home, Larry hitchhiked to Juneau, working as the iceman at Juneau Cold Storage.

He became president of the longshoreman union for the Pacific Northwest and served as a member of the North Pacific Fishery Management Council. He later became CEO of the Aleutian Pribilof Island Community Development Association (APICDA), a position and cause central to his life for decades.

Larry loved his family, APICDA, a perfect steak or white king salmon filet, and a large martini on his deck. He encouraged those around him to stay positive, be kind and find the next adventure.

Characteristically, Larry did not fear death. Even in his passing, he exuded generosity, determination and love for those around him. He, in turn, was loved by many and is greatly missed.

A virtual memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., on Saturday, June 22, 2024. An in-person celebration of life will follow in August 2024. Please email larrycottermemorial@gmail.com for event information.

Donations, in lieu of flowers, can be sent to Cancer Connection, https://www.cancerconnectionak.org/donate.