Randy Ray Cotten March 13, 1953 – January 4, 2025

Randy Ray Cotten, age 71, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2025, at his daughter's home, surrounded by his loving family and friends, after 2.5 years of courageously battling Glioblastoma.

Randy was born on March 13, 1953, and built a life filled with hard work, love, and dedication.

On September 29, 1972, Randy married the love of his life, Debra Sexton, beginning a beautiful partnership that spanned more than five decades. Together, they created a family filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

He spent 36 years working at Kemps Dairy, where his colleagues came to admire his strong work ethic and loyalty.

Randy's greatest joy was his family. He never missed a chance to attend his grandkids' activities, proudly cheering them on at every game, event, and milestone. He was always there to support his children, lending a helping hand with lawn care, home projects, and anything else they needed. Randy was always willing to lend a hand to family or friends, and his knack for tinkering on things made him the go-to person for solving problems and fixing just about anything.

Randy also had a passion for fishing, sharing his love of the water with his kids and grandkids, and teaching them the joy of casting a line. An incredibly talented woodworker, he created beautiful furniture and handcrafted pieces that will be treasured by family and friends for years to come.

Randy is survived by his loving wife, Deb; his daughter, Carley (Kevin) Vrieze; and his son, Earl (Jenni) Cotten. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Mark, Skylar, Johanna, Sydney, Logan, and William. He is also survived by four brothers: Alvin Unger of Wisconsin, Daverl Cotten of Washington, Harvey Cotten of Rochester, and Larry (Pat) Cotten of Stewartville; one sister, Lila Hanson of Rochester; brothers-in-law Mike (Shelly) Sexton, Butch (Pat) Sexton, and Craig Sexton; sisters-in-law Linda Harper, Pat (Larry) Cotten, and Mary (Barney) Rabehl; many nieces and nephews; numerous cousins; and countless dear friends. Randy also leaves behind their two special cats, Itto Bitto and Precious.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Halma Cotten, and his brothers, Darrell Cotten and Dick Cotten.

Randy will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, his sense of humor, and the deep love he had for his family. His legacy lives on through those who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 9, 2025, in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral. Burial will take place in Evergreen Cemetery in Mantorville in the spring.

Memorials are preferred to the family.