Theodore (Ted) H. Cottrell, 78, of Silver City, passed away of pancreatic cancer Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born in Butte, Mont., the firstborn of Beverley and Harold Cottrell. Three brothers and two sisters later joined Ted in the family. After graduating from high school in Denver, Colo., Ted served in the U.S. Army and Air Force. Following his discharge, Ted married his high school sweetheart, Cathy Begler, and their children were born wherever Ted’s employment with the railroad took them. After more than 30 years of marriage, Cathy passed away. Ted retired and later moved to Silver City to be near his parents. There he met Susan Anderson and married for a second time. He and Susan spent two decades renovating homes in Silver City, two of which became their residences. Ted was very skilled in all aspects of construction, including design, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, welding and masonry. He was also adept at auto mechanics and restoration. Whenever Ted wasn’t building or fixing something he headed into the nearby Gila National Forest to hike with his dog, Gopher, and anyone else lucky enough to accompany him. Camping and enjoying the wonders of nature with Susan and Gopher throughout the Southwest were also on his agenda, as was traveling to connect with family. He was known for his energy, quick sense of humor, and love of the outdoors. Ted is survived by his wife, of the family home; his children, Brett (Diane) of Castle Pines, Colo., Chad (Rindy) of Paradise, Texas, Craig (Amber) of Alliance, Neb; stepdaughters, Lynne Turner (Dan) of Dartmouth, Mass., and Sheri Liebhart (Steve) of Hurley; and grandchildren: Jared, Nicole and Emily Cottrell, Aubry (Waytt) Redding, Mandi, Tegan, Trenton (Addison) Cottrell, Alex, Keaton and Carson Cottrell, Braylon and Mariele Turner and Isaac Liebhart. He had a special place in his heart for his nieces and nephews; his cousin, Mark Brenton; godson, Mik; and friends near and far. Ted was predeceased by his parents, his first wife, Cathy and niece, Jackie. Cremation has taken place at Baca’s Funeral Chapels. A Celebration of Life will take place in the picnic pavilion at Little Walnut Picnic Grounds in Silver City Saturday, June 29th, 2024 at 11am.
