Dennis George Cotta

HARMONY – Dennis George Cotta, 77, passed away on May 31, 2024, at the Togus VA Medical Center in Augusta. Dennis was born in Harmony, on Jan. 30, 1947, son to Elizabeth “Betty” I. (Cooley) and Daniel G. Cotta.

Graduating from Harmony High School in 1965, he immediately went to proudly serve in the US Army during the Vietnam War, where he earned the National Defense Service Medal. Dennis’ resilience shone through as he transitioned to a fulfilling career as an Iron Worker with Cianbro. His dedication was evident in his 30+ years of service, where he played a pivotal role in bridge development and construction.

Adventure was a constant in Dennis’ life, not only in his service and career, but also in his hobbies. A lover of the outdoors, he was known for hunting, fishing, and working in the woods. His adventurous spirit was mirrored in his post-retirement pursuits, where he indulged in maple syrupping and beekeeping, and nurtured his love for woodwork with a portable saw mill and woodshop at home. Dennis was a man of many talents and interests, each one a testament to his relentless curiosity and zest for life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Elizabeth “Betty” Cotta.

Dennis is survived by his daughters Dennell Baker with husband Christopher of Stetson and Deanna Preble with husband Spencer of Hancock; grandsons Kyle Ham with wife Kaitlynn of Oakland and Dylan Ham of Stetson; brothers David Cotta with wife Lorraine of Sangerville, Donald Cotta with wife Barbara of Norridgewock, and Douglas Cotta with wife Sherry of Dexter; along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Dennis’ family would like to extend a special thank you to Beacon Hospice and the VA Nurses who all compassionately cared for him.

Visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at Smart & Edwards Funeral Home, 183 Madison Avenue, Skowhegan, Maine, 04976. A Graveside Service will follow at 2:00 pm at Chadbourne Cemetery, Chadbourne Road, Harmony, Maine, 04942.

Please visit Dennis’ memorial page at https://smartandedwardsfh.com/obituaries/dennis-cotta where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.