Beloved Matriarch Velma Marion Trott Cotten Passes Away at 84

Velma Marion (Trott) Cotten, aged 84, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025, at the Abbotsford Tabor Home in Canada. Born on April 15, 1941, in Port Alberni, British Columbia, Velma lived a life marked by warmth, adventure, and deep devotion to her family and community.

Velma married Victor Eugene Cotten in 1959 in Edmonton, Alberta. Together, they built a life that centered around their family and community ties. She is survived by her two sons, Steve Cotten (Darlene Madsen) and Grant Cotten (May Cheung), along with her cherished grandchildren: Aaron (Maraika Cristiu), Sara, Cameron (Aysha Prosser), Brandon, Spencer, and Jesse. Velma was especially proud of her great-granddaughter, Nora, who brought immense joy to her later years.

Velma’s legacy is defined by her generosity and unwavering love for her family. She cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren, and her home was always a welcoming space filled with kindness.

Community Contributions and Personal Pursuits

A lifelong member of TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), Velma actively participated in community activities. She was an enthusiastic square dancer and had a passion for horseback riding, showcasing her love for physical activity and social engagement. Velma and Victor also shared memorable experiences traveling to Germany twice, during Victor’s service in the Canadian Armed Forces.

In addition to their adventures, the couple operated Vic’s Shoe Repair & Engraving Shop in downtown Abbotsford, a local establishment that became a fixture in the community. Their dedication and hard work were evident in every aspect of their lives, and their shop served as a gathering point for many.

Velma’s passing is not only a loss for her family but also for the community she embraced with open arms. Her spirit and kindness have left an indelible mark on the lives she touched.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of Velma’s life will take place on Saturday, December 6, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Social Center located at 3384 Gladwin Road. This drop-in event invites family and friends to come together to honor her memory. For further information, please contact Steve at [email protected] or 778-982-2233, or Grant at [email protected].

Velma Marion Trott Cotten will be remembered for her boundless love, her unwavering support for her family, and the joy she brought to those around her.