Walter E. Cotter, age 104, of Woodland Road, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, July 18, 2017. He was the husband of the late Elizabeth “Betty” M. (Martin) Cotter. Walter was always the dignified gentleman, whether in business, social engagements, golf or family matters. A person of moderation, he always had a job, and was often sought after for his dedication, trustworthiness and industry. He never hesitated to speak his mind, but always did so with grace and compassion.

Born in Providence, a son of the late William H. and Sadie (Barney) Cotter, Walter lived in Barrington since 1954. He graduated from South Kingstown High School, went to work in his hometown of Wakefield as a store clerk, then as a newspaper reporter, then as car dealership bookkeeper. He attended Georgetown University. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, where he developed a mail system for the Naval Post Office that succeeded his tenure in the Navy.

Mr. Cotter was hired by Aetna Casualty, where he acquired the enviable knack of tuning out the din of the office, while focusing on the matter of underwriting insurance. In 1956 he formed the insurance agency now known as Burns & Cotter, where he stayed active well into his retirement years. Walter enjoyed tennis, racing on a friend’s S-boat, and watching his family grow. An avid golfer, he was a 60-year member of Rhode Island Country Club, where a recent plaque is named for him and his achievement of shooting his age at least once a year from the age of 79 to 91.

He is survived by a daughter, Elizabeth “Lisbeth” C. Herbst and her husband Dave of Bristol; two sons, Walter B. Cotter of Riverside and John M. Cotter and his wife Susan of Englewood, Fla.; a brother, Richard S. Cotter of Idaho Falls, Idaho; 10 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He was the brother of the late William H. Cotter, Jr. and Alice “Sis” Robinson.

Walter’s firm handshake belied his gentleness. His confident stride belied his humility. His patient wisdom of stating, “There is no penalty for being early!” showed us that we were blessed to have his guidance. Now, in his passing, he is not early, but rather he seems to be right on time.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday, July 25, at St. Luke’s Church, 108 Washington Road, Barrington. A private burial, with military honors, was held at St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket. Contributions in his memory may be made to St. Luke’s Church.

www.barrrettandcotter.com