Ralph Cotter

Ralph Ellis Cotter 

April 14, 1937-August 19, 2024

Ralph Ellis Cotter, 87, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away Monday, August 19, 2024 at Settlers Place in La Porte, IN.

He was born April 14, 1937 in La Porte, Indiana, the son of Virginia (Jones) Shields.

A lifelong resident of the area, Ralph attended New Carlisle High School. After high school Ralph served in the United States Army during the Korean War. On April 18, 1958, in La Porte, Indiana, he married the love of his life, Barbara (Bienas) Cotter, who preceded him in death January 22, 2011. Ralph will be fondly remembered as the owner and operator of La Porte Liquors. His friendly demeanor and warm smile were a fixture in the lives of many who visited him over the years. A true community man, Ralph was an active member of several organizations, including the Moose Lodge in La Porte, the La Porte Yacht Club, the American Legion Hamon Gray Post 83, the VFW 5168 in Forsythe, Missouri, the Pine Lake Association, and the Phi Delts of La Porte. A true sports aficionado, Ralph was a fan of the Chicago Cubs and the Bears, and passionately supported women's sports, especially enjoying what Caitlin Clark has done for girl's and women's basketball. He was also an avid NASCAR fan, with Mark Martin being his favorite racer. Throughout his life, Ralph traveled extensively to attend races, creating unforgettable memories with his beloved wife. His enthusiasm for racing was matched by his hands-on experience, working on and racing a street stock in South Bend and Plymouth with his son. Ralph's love for the water was evident as he lived on the lake for many years, where water skiing became one of his favorite pastimes. He and his wife were snowbirds, embracing the freedom of traveling in his motor home, venturing to new places like St Cloud, FL and enjoying life’s adventures. His greatest adventure, though, was spending time with his beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren, who he dearly loved.

He is survived by his son, Gregory E (Debbie) Cotter of La Porte, IN; two daughters, Linda Cotter of Taneyville, MO, Becky (John) Hamilton of Granger, IN; eight grandchildren, Brittney (John) Satoski, Brodie (Kelley) Cotter, Shelby (Maurice) Killingsworth, Sonjia (Dusty) Capon, Sydnee Cotter, Colton Shail, Connor Hamilton, Christina Hamilton; 10 great-grandchildren and one on the way, and good friend, Duane Burger.

Along with his wife of 53 years, Ralph was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Marilyn (Gene) Lofberg, granddaughter, Brooke Cotter, son-in-law, Randall Shail.

Arrangements are being entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 602 Maple Ave., La Porte, IN. Cremation will take place and the family will have a private graveside service at Pine Lake Cemetery at a later date. 

Memorial contributions may be made in Ralph's name to Mooseheart Child City and School, Inc, Mooseheart, IL 60539 or www.mooseheart.org.

Online condolences may be made at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.