Merrill R. Cotten, 87, passed away August 20, 2017 in Arlington Heights. He was married for almost 70 years to his high school sweetheart, Marie (Followell) Cotten.

A loving and proud father of Marcia (James) Janaszak, Marc (Joni) Cotten, the late Marion (Linda) Cotten, Mary Lynn (R. David Robinson) Cotten, Matthew (Genene) Cotten, Morgan (Joanne) Cotten, Michael (Cynthia) Cotten. Adored grandfather of 17 and great-grandfather of 16. Fond uncle of many. Preceded in death by his sister Ida “Patsy” Greene.

Merrill was raised in Lake of the Ozarks, MO.  In 1951 he graduated from the Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy (now Missouri University of Science and Technology) as a Civil Engineer. He first worked for Massman Construction, then Lake States Engineering Corporation and finally De Leuw, Cather/Parsons.  During his career he worked in the field on many projects on the Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio and Meramac Rivers, Lake Michigan as well as Illinois and Minnesota waterways.

From 1974 until his retirement he was responsible for all cost estimates and specifications for all projects at De Leuw Cather/Parsons.  He was a member of the Western Society of Engineers and was published in engineering publications. 

Merrill was a life member of the Masonic Lodge of Webster Groves, MO. He was very active in his church and had a deep faith that was evident in his daily life. He loved playing his guitar and singing Country & Western and gospel music.  He was a great story teller and loved to tell jokes.  His generosity and compassion were immeasurable. A big man with a big heart and a big laugh to match.

Visitation Friday, 3:00 – 9:00 P.M. at Friedrichs Funeral Home, 320 W. Central Rd. at (Northwest Highway) Mt. Prospect.  Funeral Saturday, 10:00 A.M. at the Funeral Home. 

Private interment

In lieu of flowers memorials to Trinity United Methodist Church, 605 W Golf Rd, Mt Prospect, IL 60056 are appreciated.