John Arthur Cotton, 80

John Arthur Cotton, 80, of Polson, passed away peacefully on Friday, Feb. 24, 2023, at his home with family by his side. He was born in February 1943 in Illinois to George and Maxine Cotton.

He loved anything that had a motor, from snowmobiling with his buddies, touring roads on his motorcycle, pulling friends behind his boat, and flying his plane! In his younger days, John had a passion for drag racing and shredding the slopes on his skis. He enjoyed curling up with Harley the giant cat and throwing the ball for Fred the chocolate lab.

In the mid-1960s, he served his country in the U.S. Air Force as a jet-engine mechanic.

In Spring of 1985 he married Deborah, the love of his life. They had many adventures living in the Salt Lake Valley before moving up north to beautiful Montana where they have spent the last 29 years building wonderful homes and friendships.

John is preceded in death by his parents, George and Maxine Cotton, brother Richard Cotton, and sister Bobbye Aschenbeck.

Survivors include his wife, Deborah Cotton, stepson Stanley Lucido, stepdaughter Nichol Lucido, brother George “Sonny” Cotton, niece Sherrie Dean and her family, niece Sue Bigelow, and nephew David Cotton and family.

John’s wish is to have his ashes spread in the beautiful wilderness where he can fly free above the clouds and watch over his earthly loved ones. Family and close friends will have a private celebration to honor his life Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.